pediatric dentist

When Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?

April 19th, 2021

Parents know that having a pediatrician is an important part of maintaining a kid's health.  Trained physicians can tell you if your child is meeting milestones and how to navigate any questions you have.

Finding a pediatric dentist is much the same, only for your child's teeth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that every child should visit their dentist after the eruption of their first primary tooth and prior to 12 months of age.

In doing so, parents can learn how to take care of a child's teeth using prevention-based techniques prior to the development of any dental disease. It's also a great opportunity start the process of helping your child establish a lifetime of good oral health habits.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Using Sedation at the Pediatric Dentist

April 5th, 2021

If your child needs to undergo certain procedures, we may recommend sedation. We know lots of parents have questions about how sedation works. Here are some facts about pediatric dentistry and sedation.



Sedation refers to the use of relaxation techniques to accomplish more comfortable treatment. Sedation is used to make patients feel more comfortable and calm during treatment. The pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentistry recommend sedation for things like major treatments, low pain tolerance, and sometimes for dental anxiety.

There are several different types of sedation. Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative commonly used during dental visits. IV sedation, also called a sleep visit, involves putting the patient to sleep so they are unconscious during their treatment.

Sedation is safe and endorsed by the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Our staff always takes the time to explain why we recommend sedation and will answer any questions parents have about its use.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Does Your Child Need a Tooth Filling?

March 23rd, 2021

Approximately 43% of kids ages 2 to 19 have cavities.  The best way to prevent your kid from having a cavity is to promote regular flossing and brushing.  But if your child does get a cavity, we may recommend a tooth filling.

The pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentistry provides dental fillings in our Tucson office. Metal-free fillings are popular with patients, especially when the tooth if visible because of their ability to blend naturally with the rest of your child’s smile.

If we find a cavity in your child's teeth, we'll talk with you at your appointment about recommended next steps.  Our ultimate goal is provide your child with a lifetime of strong dental health.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Best Pediatric Dental Practices During COVID-19

March 10th, 2021

Many of our patients and families have questions about how we've changed our routines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It's a good question that we've spent almost a year thinking about and refining. We take our families' health very seriously, and we've taken every precaution to ensure you will have a safe experience in our office.



Some of the ways we've minimized the risk of COVID-19 at our dental practice include:

  • Seeing fewer patients: We've reduced our patient load so that we can maintain social distancing and less people inside our office at a given time.
  • More frequent, thorough cleaning: While we've always been strict about sanitizing our office, we increased the number of times we clean throughout the building, especially where families may interact.
  • Strict screening: We screen everyone who comes through our door every day, staff and families alike. We will re-schedule any patient we feel is has an elevated risk of having COVID-19.
  • Advanced air filtration: True-HEPA filtration systems are placed throughout our office for maximum coverage.
  • And lots more: You can read our full list of best pediatric dental practices we follow here.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Hulafrog's Most Loved Pediatric Dentist for 2021

February 16th, 2021

We are so excited to be voted Hulafrog's Most Loved Pediatric Dentist for 2021! Hulafrog is a national-local media company for parents. We connect parents to the best Tucson activities & resources for kids. Many families around Tucson voted for us for this honor. We're pleased to have your confidence.



As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

3 New Twists on the Tooth Fairy

February 2nd, 2021

Many parents use the tooth fairy in order to encourage kids to look forward to losing their teeth. It makes sense we'd want to smooth a process in which bones are literally falling out of our children's mouths! We all know the whole "cash under the pillow" routine, but if you're looking for some different ways to play tooth fairy, you can try one of these variants.



  • Try a tooth fairy stash outside the bedroom door. Do you have trouble exchanging tooth for cash after your little ones have gone to sleep? Do they hear your come in the room, or worse, wait up for the tooth fairy? You can always create a special cup or plate outside the child's bedroom and tell them the tooth fairy only shows up after the child has gone to bed.
  • Have the tooth fairy leave a personal note. Instead of just leaving money, you could also type up a small note from your tooth fairy to give to your child. It might say how proud they are of wriggling their first tooth or the importance of brushing and flossing for clean teeth.
  • Leave non-money items. If you're not fond of stashing dollars or quarters, you could also leave a small toy or other prize from the tooth fairy. Just be careful about leaving sweets...we want to remind kids that the tooth fairy values healthy eating to reduce tooth decay!

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Saliva and Dental Health

January 19th, 2021

We talk a lot about protecting teeth in this blog because that's the number one job of pediatric dentists. But did you also know that saliva plays a role in a healthy kid's mouth?



Saliva is produced by glands in the mouth around the cheek, tongue, and jaws. It contains water and other proteins that protect tooth enamel. Saliva helps clean your mouth between meals, rinsing food particles away. It would also be really hard to eat food without saliva. (Can you imagine swallowing toast without it?)

Healthy children have no problem generating enough saliva to meet their needs, but if your child experiences dry mouth, let us know. It could be they just need to drink more water, but it could also be a medical condition or a side effect of medication.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

4 Ways to Battle Fear of the Dentist

January 4th, 2021

Dentists sometimes get a bad rap.  You've all heard the jokes comparing terrible experiences with "going to the dentist."  Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we strive to create a positive environment for your kids.  We don't want kids to be afraid of us, so we do everything our power to reverse this negative stereotype.

You can help as a child's parent too.  Try the following tips to help reduce your child's learned fear of the dentist.

  1. Choose a dentist who is patient with kids.  We recommend that your child see a pediatric dentist simply because they are used to the different developmental stages of children.  It takes time and practice to provide care for little kids.
  2. Describe the dentist as a positive experience. If you talk about the dentist as a scary place, your kids will believe it.  Try instead to talk about the positive aspects of seeing a dentist, such as having a lifetime of healthy teeth.
  3. Minimize your use of "scary" dentist words. Some words can create anxiety for children.  For example, instead of "cavity," we may say "sick tooth."   This also makes what's happening more relevant to children, since many don't understand what a cavity is.  
  4. Go to the dentist for your own routine cleanings. If kids know their parents see their dentists for their own care, it will help them understand how this is part of basic dental hygiene.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Ideas for At-Home Holiday Fun

December 22nd, 2020

This year lots of people will be staying at home instead of traveling like they normally would for the holiday season. It's been a tough year for all of us, and there's no mitigating some of that disappointment. But there are still ways you and your kids can still keep the season fun within your immediate family.



  • Watch holiday themed movies together. There are tons of holidays shows and movies available on streaming services. From old black and white classics to holiday baking shows, snuggle up on the couch together with your family for a little cheer.
  • Spread bits of joy to your neighborhood. Social distancing means you can't go to as many social gatherings as normal, but that doesn't mean you have to be a stranger. Make a small gift bag or leave little notes for your neighbors wishing everyone Happy Holidays.
  • Do a family holiday craft. Replace holiday parties with a craft night. You could make a set of 2020 ornaments for your tree or enjoy cooking traditional dishes.
  • Put on a family talent show. Instead of just a traditional Zoom call with your extended family, suggest a talent show. It's especially fun for the kids to show off a musical or athletic talent. You can even record videos before them and screen-share them during the call.
  • Find ways to enjoy the outdoors. We're fortunate to live in an area where we can still enjoy being outside. Plan a holiday hike or drive around town looking at holiday decorations from the comfort of your car.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Benefits of Fluoride on Dental Health

November 30th, 2020

We get a lot of questions about fluoride here at Northwest Children's Dentistry. There are lots of myths about its use out on the Internet, but the truth is that fluoride is one of the best ways to protect your kids' teeth.



Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel. Pediatric dentists love it because it reduces the harmful effects of plaque, one of the leading causes of children's tooth decay. Preventing disease is way easier than treating a problem, and we want your kids to have healthy teeth for as long as possible.

Many people falsely believe fluoride is unsafe. However, unless you misuse fluoride, science finds it to be safe for kids. You can prevent fluoride misuse by not letting your kids swallow fluoride toothpaste.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Social Distancing at the Dentist

November 16th, 2020

Given the rise of COVID-19, many families are wondering how to keep their families safe.  Because many of us on staff at Northwest Children's Dentistry are also parents, we completely understand those concerns.  We already have a page dedicated to how we have changed our practice to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, but we'd also like to share our basic health principles with you.

  • The health of our patients and staff is our number one priority.  Last spring, we were closed longer than many other local pediatric dental offices because we wanted to ensure we could reliably minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission.  We take the health of our community very seriously.
  • We keep abreast of the latest COVID-19 procedures and guidelines.  Several agencies are providing guidelines on best practices on how to reduce COVID-19 transmission within the dental field.  We keep track of them diligently and make changes to how we operate as needed.
  • We're here to listen to your concerns.  Being a health care provider means juggling COVID-19 risks while promoting routine care.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, we want to hear about it.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Pacifier Fairy

October 26th, 2020

Everyone knows about the tooth fairy, who comes in the night to whisk away baby teeth and leaves behind small gifts.  But there's a less known entity out there who helps our children with dental hygiene: the pacifier fairy.



The pacifier fairy does much of the same work as the tooth fairy, except they take pacifiers from children who've outgrown them instead of baby teeth. Many of these fairies promise to redistribute old pacifiers to newborn babies who might need them. (We, of course, do not recommend sharing pacifiers between children. This is simply to make it easier for a sympathetic child to kick the habit.) Pacifier fairies also often leave a modest gift in the form of a toy or treat appropriate for toddlers.

While we know not everyone wants or needs new make-believe traditions, this fairy could be a good option to a family who's struggling to wean their young child from pacifiers. While mostly harmless for infants, long-term pacifier use can cause dental issues such as misaligned teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Tips for a Socially Distanced Halloween

October 12th, 2020

We here at Northwest Children's Dentistry always encourage our families to try to reduce sugar intake during the Halloween season. Although normally we would stress daily candy limits and other dental precautions, COVID-19 has interrupted many normal traditions. Some families are looking for a way to celebrate the season without normal trick-or-treating and other large gatherings.

If you fall into this category, here are some suggestions to keep your kids in the Halloween spirit while keeping your exposure risk to a minimum.



  • Carve Jack-O'-Lanterns. Some traditions already lend themselves to doing alone at home. Go all out with your pumpkin carving this year.
  • Dress up in Costume: Kids can still dress up this year. You can keep the costumes at home or you may be able to set up a small "Halloween" parade with your immediate neighbors where the kids show off their costumes without coming into contact with each other.
  • Celebrate with your Pod. If your child has a learning pod or other childcare situation, you can have a small gathering with the same people they see everyday. Just make sure they wear face coverings with their costume mask if they normally do when around the group.
  • Throw a Family Halloween Party. This can be an simple as having a movie night with special treats or recreating the trick-or-treat experience inside your home as a treasure hunt.
  • Do a Halloween Decoration Drive. Halloween decorations have become almost as popular as Christmas ones. Find a neighborhood with a lot of spooky houses and do a drive-by at night to see them in all their creepy glory.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Choosing a Pediatric Dental Practice

September 28th, 2020

If you're a new parent or just wanting to switch providers, you may be wondering what are the best criteria for choosing a pediatric dentist for your child.  Here are our top picks on what to look for.



  • Experience: A good dental practice will have experienced dentists who have seen many issues and know how to solve them.
  • Attentive Staff: Look for people in the office who listen when you talk with them, both the front and back staff. They should be eager to answer your questions and give you full explanations on why they are doing specific procedures.
  • Location: You have a busy family, so finding local dentist will make life easier if you will need multiple appointments for an injury or illness.
  • A Focus on Prevention: A good dentist will give you tons of tips on how to manage your child's dental health to reduce the risk of developing more severe conditions down the road.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Involve Your Kids in their Dental Health

September 17th, 2020

As parents of young children, you make a lot of decisions for kids, and for good reason. They're too young to always make healthy choices, and you're preparing them for a lifetime of smart decision making. As they get older, though, you'll want to encourage your kids to do the right thing even when you aren't around.

One way you can start that now is involving them in their dental health. Here are some easy ways to do that at almost any age:



  • Give them options for toothbrushes. Instead of just buying them a toothbrush, get their input. Do they have specific color choices? Do they like small or large heads? Let them choose from a variety of options.
  • Try a new toothpaste. As long as your kid is using fluoride toothpaste, the sky's the limit. Spice things up by having them pick a different toothpaste. Bubble gum flavor might sound gross to you, but fun for them.
  • Involve them in determining their own dental routine. Rather than telling them when to brush their teeth, ask them when they'd like to. They may prefer to brush after putting pajamas rather than beforehand. Or maybe they'll do it more readily if you read to them while they brush. Sometimes small changes like this can result in huge buy-in with kids.
  • Use a rewards chart. We often use rewards chart for kids when they're potty training, but they're great for dental habits too. Even with an older elementary school kid, you could make a rewards chart where they earn a sticker for each time they brush their teeth without asking. This reduces nagging and creates a happier kid working toward a new reward like a small book or toy.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Parts of a Tooth

August 31st, 2020

If you thought a tooth is just one solid structure like a rock, you might be surprised to learn how complex one really is. Like other bones in our body, teeth are made of variety of material which help us chew our food. This blog post discusses all the parts that make up your smile.



The crown is the part of the tooth you see above your gums. Like your skin, it's made of layers. The top white layer is made of enamel, which happens to be the hardest substance in your entire body. (You want your teeth hard since they grind up so much stuff in your mouth!) We brush and floss the enamel to keep it hard and working steady for us for years to come.

Underneath the enamel is a layer of dentin, which is a lot like other bones in our body. It's actually made of living calcified cells. The heart of the tooth is the pulp, which includes blood vessels and nerves. We never want cavities to reach the dentin, much less the pulp, because that really hurts.

The roots underneath connect the tooth to the jaw bone. Instead of enamel, the roots are made of a slightly softer substance called cementum. As long as the gums stay over the roots, they should remain strong enough to keep our teeth in place.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Tips for Visiting the Dentist During COVID-19

August 17th, 2020

Like many aspects of our lives, visiting the dentist looks a little different right now than it normally does. Our office has a list of COVID-19 dental policies that we follow strictly in order to keep both you and our staff as healthy as possible.

But some kids have a hard time with change. We recognize that, so here are some tips you can try to make your dental visit go more smoothly:



  • Explain change using positive words. Most of us feel some level of frustration. Life during a pandemic is difficult for everyone. However, try not to pass that feeling onto your kids. Telling your kids that the changes they see are there to keep them healthy, just brushing their teeth every day does.
  • Bring something small from home as a distraction. Because we've put away our office toys and books, you may want to consider bringing something from they can hold and enjoy. A small toy you can slip into your purse or a book for the older kids work well.
  • Have a jacket or sweater just in case. Even though it's really warm outside, we're keeping our office cooler to help our staff deal with the increased equipment they have to wear.
  • Play verbal games while you wait. If you find yourself waiting in our office, you can engage your kid by playing "I Spy" or "Twenty Questions" to fill in the time.
  • Call us if you have a specific concern. All families are different, and we're here to help. Please give our office a call and we'll answer your questions as best we can.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Add More Fruit and Veggies to Your Child's Day

August 3rd, 2020

Healthy eating is hard for a lot of adults, much less children. But it doesn't have to be that way. Here are some tips to try getting more fruit and vegetables in your children's diet.



  • Stock up on their favorites. Although we highly encourage a variety like everyone else, make sure to have 2-3 options you know they'll eat. That way, if your kid is feeling particularly picky, there is always some fruit or vegetable they will eat.
  • Try early and often. If you have a picky toddler, don't worry. The sooner you expose your little one to fruit or vegetables, the more likely they'll take to them. Just because they refused something once, doesn't mean they hate that food. Try again later and always give them the option to eat it rather than force it.
  • Pack convenient food. Fruits and vegetables don't have to be hard to carry around if you're going outside. Dried fruit often comes in convenient packaging. Bananas and oranges have hard peels which keeps them clean inside a bag. These food can go anywhere with you.
  • Grab your blender. Lots of kids who would never eat a certain food would drink it as part of a smoothie. Find a recipe online and see what kind of extra vitamins and nutrients you can pack into a cool drink.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Your Teenager and Wisdom Teeth

July 20th, 2020

Your teenager has been taking care of their teeth for a long time now. Their dental habits have been established. You may think it's time to ease them into full dental responsibility as adults, but there is one last thing to check for: wisdom teeth.



Before you can do anything, you first need to determine if you kid has wisdom teeth. An x-ray as part of their dental exam will show us that. Some kids won’t have any wisdom teeth.  Other wisdom teeth don't need to be removed if they won't cause issues in the future.

If an x-ray reveals your child's wisdom teeth might impact others around them, though, we can help you make a plan. While we don't remove wisdom teeth ourselves, we will refer you to an oral surgeon.  These specialized dentists have lots of experience in safely removing wisdom teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Encouraging Healthy Choices at Home

July 6th, 2020

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are spending a lot more time at home. With stress and limited options, it can be difficult to encourage healthy choices with your kids during this trying time.



We hope we do give yourself some slack in regards to doing whatever it takes to keep your family mentally healthy. This is a hard time for everyone, and we're all doing the best we can.

If you are looking for low-effort ways keep your family physically healthy at home, though, here are some easy things you can try:

  • Find Kid-Themed Workout Videos. A lot of YouTube channels have created workout videos with kid themes you can do at home. We've enjoyed Michael Ginicola and Cosmic Kids Yoga, but quick searches will show you lots of free options.
  • Buy Fruits and Vegetables that Last a Long Time. If you're going to the grocery store less, buy fruits and vegetables that have a long-shelf life. For example, apples and oranges take longer to spoil than berries. Canned options can also help keep these essential foods available to your household.
  • Play Games with a Physical Component to Them. Encouraging your kids to play games like "hide and seek" with stuffed animals will keep them moving throughout the house. Even some video games, like the Nintendo Switch and VR, encourage exercise.
  • Take Time to Relax. If you're still working and stretched thin, you may feel like you have no time for yourself as a parent. Now more than ever, it's essential to indulge in self-care. Build time into your schedule for a relaxing activity you enjoy, whether that be watching a favorite show, doing a hobby, or just sitting in your favorite chair. Same applies to the kids.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

How to Encourage Your Kid to Brush for 2 Minutes

June 22nd, 2020

The American Dental Association recommends that both adults and kids brush their teeth for 2 minutes at a time, and for good reason. Brushing less might mean missing spots and emerging dental problems over time.

But how can you make sure they brush for the recommended amount of time? Here's some things you can try:



  • Use a timer. Either a digital timer or an old-fashioned board game sand timer will work.
  • Search your phone's app store. There are a lot of apps out there that entertain kids while they brush while also going the full two minutes. You might find one themed with characters they enjoy.
  • Listen to an appropriately length song. Kids songs tend to be shorter, so if you can find a 2-minute song they love, you can play that as they brush.
  • Read to them for two minutes. You might find a board book on your bookshelf that you can read in about two minutes.
  • Brush with your kids. There's no better way to enforce good habits than by modeling them yourself. If you brush your teeth at the same time as your kids, then everyone in the family will brush long enough.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Northwest Children's Dentistry is Now Open

May 26th, 2020

Due to COVID-19, Northwest Children's Dentistry closed in March on the recommendation of the American Dental Association.  Now that we know more about the virus and can take extra precautions, we are reopening May 26, 2020.

That doesn't mean we think the threat of COVID-19 is over. We've taken many precautions to keep both your patients and our staff safe. Here is just a sample of what we have done to reduce the risk of transmission at our office:



  • Everyone (including patients, families, and staff) are required to wear masks.  This will help us reduce the amount of potential exposure in the air.  If you forget to bring a mask, we are happy to provide one for you.
  • We will clean our facilities more thoroughly and more often. While our pediatric dental office already had strict cleaning procedures in place, we will be increasing our cleaning and sterilization procedures throughout the day.
  • We've improved our building facilities.  True-HEPA filtration systems have been installed.  More dividers will be put in place to keep people from being in contact with others.

For a full list of new policy procedures and changes, please read our COVID-19 information page.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Maintaining Dental Routines during COVID-19

April 13th, 2020

It is a difficult time for most families right now. Many people (our dental office included) has lost a significant amount of work, which could result in lost pay. On the other hand, some essential workers in health care, retail, and logistics might be experiencing a surge of work at a time where they're not sure they're safe. It is a truly a unique and unpredictable point in global history.



We certainly don't want to overload you with even more stress as the corona virus changes our daily lives. Self-care is very important not only for children, but the families who take care of them. That's why we offer these quick, easy solutions for maintaining your child's dental health during this time:

  • Continue brushing at least twice a day. Maintaining a morning and evening brushing routine will help keep a semblance of normalcy in your kids' lives.
  • Floss once a day. Choose either the morning or night routine and floss beforehand.
  • Eat healthy and exercise where possible. Don't worry about a rigorous diet or a strenuous workout routine, but small things like snacking on fruits and vegetables where possible and going on a long walk while keeping six-feet away from others will improve your overall well-being.
  • Call our office if you have a dental emergency. Our phone number remains open: (520) 544-8522. We may not be open for routine and optional visits, but we can certainly help if your child needs us immediately.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

What to do with a Knocked Out Permanent Tooth

March 2nd, 2020

Kids have accidents, and it's always best to be prepared in case of an emergency. If your kid accidentally knocks out one of their permanent teeth, here's what you should do:



First, if possible, locate the tooth. Handle it by the crown (top) of the tooth, not by the root. DO NOT clean with soap, scrub or handle the tooth unnecessarily. You may very GENTLY rinse the tooth with water if you plan to re-implant the tooth.

Inspect the tooth for fractures. If it is sound, try to reinsert it in the socket. Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting down on gauze. If you cannot re-insert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing the patient’s saliva or milk (or ice water if milk is not available). If the patient is old enough, the tooth may also be carried in the patient’s mouth (beside the cheek), which can help preserve it.

Time is critical when saving a permanent tooth! Please call our office immediately for an emergency consultation.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Spring Sports and Mouth Guards

February 17th, 2020

Spring's just around the corner, and that means spring sports! Many of our families have kids excited about a wide range of athletic activities. If your child or teenager plays a high contact sport, you may want to consider a mouth guard.



Northwest Children's Dentistry creates custom mouth guards geared specifically toward your child. We do this by taking an impression of your child’s mouth so that it perfectly matches the contours of their teeth and gums. If you want, we can also add additional features, such as team colors, to get your child excited about wearing it during games and practice.

Custom mouth guards provide a better fit than generic mouth guards bought at the store They offer more comprehensive dental coverage and increased comfort inside your child's mouth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Protecting your Child's Teeth with Sealants

February 3rd, 2020

In pediatric dentistry, the best way to manage your child's teeth is through routine prevention methods. We all know about brushing and flossing, but you may not be aware of the role sealants play.



A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating we bond to your child's teeth, generally their permanent molars. These back teeth often have deep pits and grooves making them difficult for your child to brush properly. When these teeth don't receive adequate care, harmful bacteria forms on the tooth, which can have lifelong dental consequences.  

That's why we routinely recommend covering permanent molars with a sealant to keep food and bacteria out of your child’s teeth.  It reduces the risk of dental decay by up to 50%. And it helps ensure a healthy mouth as your child grows into adulthood.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Helping Kids Lose Baby Teeth

January 23rd, 2020

Teeth are often an important milestone for babies.  We see those first baby teeth come in, and we marvel at our growing children.  Later down the road, losing those teeth are equally important, but this time, your kids are aware of what's going on.

Some kids have an anxiety about losing those teeth.  They could be scared of change, especially something as familiar as the teeth in their mouth.  Here are some suggestions to help you soothe a kid who's worried about losing their first primary teeth:

  • Read Children's Books about Losing Teeth Together.  Knowing that losing a tooth is a normal part of growing up, and kids should know that.  Reading picture books showing other kids go through this can help a child know what to expect.  It helps to read this as soon as you suspect your child has a wiggling tooth so they have time to adjust the idea of losing it.
  • Talk up the Tooth Fairy.  Just like using reward charts for potty training, the tooth fairy is a kind of positive reward for losing teeth.  Knowing there's a prize for getting rid of a tooth in advance can help ease a kid's mind.
  • Be There When it's Time for the Tooth to Go.  Being a positive, patient pressure when the tooth's about to fall out can help a stressed out kid.  Have them snuggle in your lap while they wriggle the tooth.  Get excited as it gets looser.  Having you there as a cheerleader can make the event seem less intimidating.
  • Or Conversely, Give Them Some Space.  This might seem contradictory, but kids, just like adults, have different personalities.  If being a cheerleader seems to increase your child's anxiety, you can take a step back and let them try to work it out themselves.  A little distance and space can also sometimes ease a child's mind.

Of course, if you have any medical concerns about your child's loose teeth, always feel free to give our office a call.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Make a New Year's Dental Resolution

January 6th, 2020

It's not only a new year, but a new decade with 2020.  Your kid will be using their teeth for the rest of their lives.  What resolutions can you make this year to ensure they have a healthy smile?

Brush teeth twice a day.  Cleaning teeth is the best preventative measure for your children.  Brushing once in the morning and once in the evening for two minutes each decreases the risk of tooth decay.

Floss daily.  Toothbrushes can only clean the visible portion of your kids' teeth.  Flossing addresses those hard to reach surface areas between teeth.

Visit a pediatric dentist twice a year.  Seeing the dentist can identify problems before they become serious.  We also provide fluoride treatments and sealants, which will help your child's teeth when brushing and flossing just aren't enough.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Reducing Sugar Consumption During the Holidays

December 2nd, 2019

Halloween and Thanksgiving have both come and gone.  We consume a lot of sugary food during this time, and with various winter holidays around the corner, that's not likely to ebb anytime soon.

However, we all know that eating so much bad food is unhealthy for us.  For kids particularly, consumption of sugary treats increase the risk for cavities.  So in the spirit of a healthy season, here are some suggestions to keep your kid smiling all year round:

  • Enjoy physical festive activities.  Not all family events require food.  Visiting Santa in his workshop, taking a walk around the block, and going to your house of worship are all ways to keep moving during the holidays.
  • Substitute fruits over processed sugar.  Fruits have natural sugars that don't damage your child's teeth the way processed sugar does.  Offer berries, apples, and other fruit when your kid wants something sweet.
  • Set reasonable limits.  It's okay to want a piece of pie, just keep the portions reasonable and don't follow it up with cake and candy canes too.
  • Buy your kids gifts that require them to be active.  Sports equipment, bicycle gear, and all things that are meant to be enjoyed outdoors help your kids run around after the holiday feasts are over.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

5 Tips for Getting Your Child to Floss

November 14th, 2019

We all know we should floss, but sometimes it's easier said than done.  That can go double for kids, since doing any kind of boring chore, even for a long-term gain like healthy teeth, seems so far off.

But keeping your kid cavity-free is an important part of dental health. Here are five tips for getting your child to floss every day.

  • Make flossing a regular part of your routine. If your kids do things like read a story every night, then add flossing to the list of stuff that needs to get done before bedtime.
  • Create a rewards chart. Simple rewards charts can motivate kids to do chores consistently. Have a fun prize at the end of the month for filling the chart, like a family game night or a trip to a favorite park.
  • Try kid flossers. Sometimes using the standard dental floss is hard for little fingers. You can buy brightly colored kids' flossers to make it easier to reach back teeth.
  • Play "floss" music. The floss dance is a strange, but fun, kids' dance craze. Leverage that by playing "floss" music where the kids floss their teeth first, then do the floss for you.
  • Lead by example. Make it family floss time by flossing together with your kids. When they see you have to do it too, then it's more likely they'll follow.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Food Substitutes for a Healthy Smile

October 29th, 2019

Eating healthy has a ton of benefits. As dentists, we love food options that keep your kid's smile bright. If your kid eats more junk food than you would like, you can cut back a little by offering these healthy alternatives:

  • Drink water or milk instead of soda and juice.  Soda and juice contain a lot of sugars that can damage teeth over time.  Try to limit your child's soda or juice intake to no more than 4-6 ounces a day.
  • Snack on dried fruit instead of candy.  It's fun to chew on fruit-flavored candy, but try a piece of dried fruit instead.   You'll get the same flavor, but with less damage to your teeth.
  • Chew on sugar-free gum instead of gum with sugar additives.  Cavities are a leading dental problem for kids, so cutting back on sugary gum will limit your child's exposure to the sugars that cause them.
  • Bite into an apple instead of crackers.  Apples do have some sugars, but coupled with the fibers of the fresh fruit, they wash away pretty quickly in your mouth.  
  • Incorporate as many veggies into your kid's diet as possible.  Veggies are great at maintaining healthy teeth.  The more you can offer your children, the more smiles you'll get out of their teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

How to Stop Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use

October 14th, 2019

Many infants and toddlers use thumb sucking or pacifiers to self-soothe.  While this is normal behavior at younger ages, as your child gets into their preschool years, these habits can cause damage to your child's teeth.  Below are some ideas to get your child to stop needing to suck their thumb or use a pacifier:

  • Try limiting behavior first.  It may be hard to stop the habit cold turkey, but you might be able to convince a child to stop it during daytime hours or nap time.  Reward charts and other positive rewards can help you encourage them to snuggle with a plush animal instead of sticking something in their mouth.
  • Start a reward chart.  Some children love the sense of accomplishment they feel using a reward chard.  You can give your child a special treat for earning 10 or more stickers per chart.
  • Allow the child to take a special toy to bed.  Sometimes allowing a kid to take a special toy to bed helps them transition away from the thumb sucking or pacifier use.  This could be something you buy for them, but it could also be a favorite harder toy you might not normally allow them to take to bed.
  • Deploy the pacifier fairy.  Some parents use this spin on the "tooth fairy" to get them to give up their pacifiers.  The pacifier fairies give their old pacifiers to a baby, and in return, they get some prize waking up the next day.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Smile-Friendly Treats for Halloween

October 3rd, 2019

Halloween is just around the corner, and for many children, that means lots of candy. Although we agree it's okay to indulge in some sweets for the season, we also like to promote other fun, non-sugary treats that will still make even the littlest ghost smile.



Here's our recommend list of things you can hand out to trick or treaters:

  • Little jars of clay: Big box stores now sell these fun bits of fun that kids can mold long after Halloween is over.
  • Stickers: You can buy these in bulk and hand 'em out by the handful.
  • Patterned bandages: Stores now sell all sorts of fun bandages with colorful characters that kids love wearing.
  • Temporary Tattoos: Give them some ink to show off to their folks.
  • Bouncy Balls: Pretty much every kid loves to bounce these off sidewalks and see how far they will fly.
  • Coins: Get rid of your loose change and give them something they can save for a rainy day.
  • Glow Sticks: They can snap one of these for safety as they walk from house to house.
  • Pencils: Useful for art, school, or just about any occasions, pencils are the cheap treat that keeps on giving.

Whatever you decide to give out at your door, we hope you have a safe and fun Halloween!

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Services Available from a Pediatric Dentist

September 16th, 2019

You may think a dentist is just a dentist, but pediatric dentists are specially trained to look after a child's growing teeth. After graduating from general dental school, pediatric dentists go on to earn an additional degree on dental care for children. Pediatric dentists also have a lot of techniques to make kids feel comfortable and welcome in the dentists’ chair.  Read on to find out what kind of services pediatric dentists like the ones at Northwest Children's Dentistry have to offer:



  • Routine Check-Ups: We examine your child's teeth every six months to make sure they are growing properly. Routine care and preventative measures will lessen the amount of procedures we need to do to keep your kid healthy.
  • Sealants: A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating secured to the chewing surface of the tooth.  Many permanent molars erupt with deep pits and grooves. The sealant fills these areas to create a barrier to keep food and bacteria out.  This simple procedure can reduce the risk of tooth decay by up to 50%.
  • Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride is a pediatric dentist’s top disease prevention technique.   Regular fluoride treatments can help reduce cavities.
  • Cavity Fillings: If your child has significant tooth decay or damaged teeth, we can provide fillings to protect them.   We can also provide metal-free fillings that blend in with your child's natural smile.
  • Mouth or Sports Guards: If your child is involved in a high-impact sport, you may want to consider a custom mouth guard for your child.  Custom mouth guards protect your child’s teeth in case of injury and are more comfortable to wear than store bought ones.
  • And many more! We provide a variety of individualized services and will do everything possible to help answer all your questions about your child's dental health.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Can Baby Bottles Cause Tooth Decay?

September 2nd, 2019

You may have heard someone say that baby bottles cause tooth decay. You may think to yourself, I know lots of children who used bottles without any problem with their teeth. How is this possible?



It's not the bottle itself causing a problem, but how you let the child use it.  Tooth decay is more likely to occur when a child is given a bottle of formula or milk as a way to fall asleep or as a pacifier.  This allows the child to let the liquid pool around in their mouth much longer than they normally would if they were actively drinking, and this can lead to tooth decay.

Giving a child sugary drinks such as juice in a bottle can also increase the risks of tooth decay.  This is linked more to the liquid itself.  Water, for example, does not increase tooth decay risk.

We recommend a child start drinking out of cup when they are developmentally ready.  For many children, this is around the time of their first birthday.  

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

How to Take Care of a Toothbrush

August 19th, 2019

As an adult, you've been brushing your teeth for years, so you probably think you know all about toothbrushes. The truth is, you probably do! Your child, however, may not know the best way to take care of theirs. Make sure to go over these simple rules on how to take care of a toothbrush.



Never share your toothbrush.  It may be obvious to you, but your child should know you don't ever share toothbrushes, not even with a sibling.  Doing so can lead to shared diseases and other illnesses.

Rinse your toothbrush after every use.  In order for your toothbrush bristles to maintain their effectiveness, make sure your child rinses them every time after they brush their teeth.

Let your toothbrush air dry.  If you leave a toothbrush in a closed container, bacteria and mildew can grow on it.  Instead, let it air dry in a cup or another clean place.

Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months.  Toothbrushes aren't meant to last forever.  Bent and broken bristles can make it less effective at brushing your teeth.  Let your child pick out a new one every 3-4 months.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Don't Forget to Schedule an Appointment Before the End of Year!

August 8th, 2019

If you're lucky enough to have dental insurance, then you generally receive benefits within a calendar year. Many plans allow 2 free dental cleanings per year for each of your children. Don't know about yours? Read on below!



At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we're happy to help you understand your dental insurance benefits.  You can call our office at any time and let us know your dental plan.  If we work with your insurance provider, we'll call them up for you to see what benefits your child can receive at our office.

If you still have a free cleaning, you will likely need to schedule it before the end of the year.  We still have appointments available and can help you find a time that works within your schedule.

Regular check-ups help prevent future dental health issues.  We'd much rather see your child regularly and prevent any tooth decay before it occurs.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

How Sugar Affects Your Child's Dental Health

July 22nd, 2019

We all know that it's best to reduce your child's sugar intake for a variety of health reasons. It's not only a matter of the body staying physically fit. Reducing a child's sugar intake is one of the best ways you can preserve a kid's general dental health.



Sugar leads to tooth decay.  Tooth decay is the leading cause of damage to children's teeth.  A National Oral Health Survey states that 42 percent of all children aged 5–10 have tooth decay in their baby teeth, a quarter of which is untreated.  When tooth decay affects a child's permanent teeth, you're looking at lifelong dental issues.

Sugar, though, is a tempting treat for children and adults alike.  Even reducing your child's intake can help immensely offset its risks.  Keep your child's sugar intake to small portions and not at every meal.  Substitute processed sugary foods with fruit, whose natural sugars do not affect a child's teeth in the same way.  Juice and other sugary drinks such as soda, should not be consumed more than 4-6 ounces a day.  

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Why Take Your Teenager to the Pediatric Dentist

July 11th, 2019

Teenagers have busy lives, and sometimes things fall to the wayside.  One thing you don't want to let slide regular visits to the pediatric dentist.  Here's a few reasons why:



  • Teenagers are still at risk for tooth decay. 59% of children between the ages of 12 and 19 years old have experienced tooth decay. 20% of them are left untreated. Seeing a dentist will ensure that the problem will be fixed at its source so that they can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth.
  • Regular cleaning keep their teeth more clean. Seeing a pediatric dentist twice a year supplements their normal cleaning routines at home and helps reduce the risk of decayed or otherwise damaged teeth.
  • Catching dental problems early. Your teenager may be developing less common dental problems that can only be caught by regular check-ups. Reversing a problem early means less invasive corrective procedures.
  • Setting the bar for a lifetime of dental health. Even adults should be seeing a dentist twice a year. Getting into the habit of good dental hygiene will increase the odds that your teenager's teeth will survive into their golden years.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Summer Tips for Dental Health

June 24th, 2019

Summer is in full swing, and in between all the camps, playing, and outings, it's good to keep your kid's dental health up to par.  Here are some tips on how to keep your child's teeth healthy over the summer:



  • Drink water instead of sugary drinks. Kids will get hot running around, and it may be tempting to let them drink whatever's in the fridge. Stick to water, though, to reduce the chance of cavities. It's best not to let your child drink more than 4-6 oz. of juice a day.
  • Wear mouth guards for contact sports. If your child is going to a summer sports camp for an intensive sport, consider getting them a mouth guard to protect their teeth.
  • Don't throw your dental routine out the window. With a summer schedule or while you're on vacation, it may be tempting to skip brushing and flossing regularly. Make sure to keep this up even if your day is completely different than during the school year.
  • Come in for routine dental check-ins. Summer is often a popular time for us to see kids who are active during the school year. Make sure to schedule an appointment so we can give you personalized advice on your child's dental health.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Sippy Cup Do's and Don'ts

June 3rd, 2019

Your baby might be getting old enough to start using a sippy cup. Congratulation! Did you know that there are good ways and bad ways to use a sippy cup that will affect your child's teeth?



Here is a list of common do's and don'ts when it comes to sippy cups:

  • Do fill the sippy cup with water. Your child's hurt can never be harmed by drinking water. So let them drink water whenever they feel like it.
  • Don't let the child sleep with a sippy cup with milk or juice. In contrast, if you put a sippy cup with juice or milk in your child's crib, they can fall asleep with the liquids pooling in their mouth, which can cause cavities later in their baby teeth.
  • Do allow milk or juice at meal times. If you want to give your child something other than water, the best time is during meals when they will be consuming other foods. (Note: We recommend never giving a small child more than 4-6 ounces of juice a day.)
  • Don't stick with the sippy cup forever. It's best to get your child learning to use a regular unlidded cup, so have them practice with them as soon as possible.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

When to Start Flossing Your Toddler

May 20th, 2019

Brushing your baby's teeth should occur once that first tooth emerged, but what about flossing?

Just like brushing, flossing can technically start happening as soon as a baby has multiple teeth in their smile.  The true reason to floss, though, is to clean the spaces in between teeth, which doesn't need to happen until the child's teeth starts to move closer together.  Most kids should start flossing sometime during their toddler or preschool years.  It's crucial during this time to keep an eye on how close their teeth are.  Preventing cavities in even baby teeth is good for dental health, so you don't want to start too late.

If you're one of our patients, we will work with you to help you decide the right time to start flossing your child.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

"Painting" Your Child's Teeth: Fluoride

May 6th, 2019

If your child has come into our office, you may have heard us talking about "painting" your child's teeth.  You may wonder what we're talking about and why we call it "painting."

We are not, of course, actually painting your child's teeth a particular color.  What we are doing is applying fluoride varnish to the teeth.  Fluoride is a pediatric dentist's top disease prevention technique.  Studies have shown that fluoride can significantly reduce cavities in young children.  As strong believers of prevention, we want to reduce your child's risk of developing harmful dental problems.

We call this process "painting" teeth because it's something that any kid, even a toddler, can understand.  By using non-scary words to discuss our procedures, we aim to make your child's visit to our office a pleasant one.  We want them to be excited to come see the dentist.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to keep your child's smile healthy.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Advantage of Metal-Free Fillings

April 22nd, 2019

If your child has significant tooth decay or damaged teeth, the pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentistry can provide fillings to protect them.  While there are many different types of fillings, metal-free fillings have recently become popular.  Here's why.

  • Blend in with your child's smile.  It's much harder to see the difference between your child's natural tooth and a metal-free filling with color matching.
  • Fill in cavities.  Metal-free fillings can be used as a metal substitute for cavities.
  • Repair chipped, broken, or cracked teeth.  Resin material can fit in these gaps to restore teeth with these kinds of damages.

Different types of materials have advantages and disadvantages.  As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we can walk you through the pros and cons of each.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

What to Expect at Your Child's First Dentist Appointment

April 11th, 2019

Welcome new patients!  We get a lot of questions about what to expect at your first pediatric dental appointment.  The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that you visit a dentist by the time they turn 1 year old.

Here's what to expect when you visit our office:

  • Welcoming environment.  We know that visiting a doctor or dentist can be intimidating for kids and parents alike, so we make our office as welcoming as possible.  Enjoy the comfort of the waiting room and the bright colors of our dental bays.
  • Encouraging questions.  We hope you come prepared with questions.  We are here to put you and your child at ease and will take our time to go over all your concerns.
  • Reviewing dental history.  We'll also ask you questions about your child's dental history.  We take all the information to give him or her our best care.
  • Demonstrating good dental hygiene.  The real work of taking care of your teeth happens at home, so we'll make sure you know all the brushing, flossing, and other dental care techniques to help your child's mouth stay health.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to serve all your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Encouraging Your Child to Floss and Brush Teeth

March 28th, 2019

Do you have a reluctant brusher or flosser?  A child who drags their feet to brush their teeth in the morning or at night?  Here are some tips to try to encourage your young child to brush more often.

  • Make brushing and flossing part of a daily routine.  Making brushing a natural part of every day will help reinforce to your child it's just something they do, like getting dressed in the morning.
  • Let them pick out dental supplies.  Young kids are more likely to opt in if they have choice.  Let them choose a favorite color toothbrush or a different kind of fluoride toothpaste.  This makes them feel like part of the dental process.
  • Create a rewards chart.  Sometimes kids just need a little push to make brushing or flossing a regular part of the day.  Hang up a rewards chart where kids earn a sticker for each time they brush or floss without you needing to remind them.  When they collect 20 stickers, give them a modest prize.
  • Show them you brush and floss too.  Being a good example to your kids goes a long way in showing that dental care is important at your house.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to serve all your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Tooth Grinding and Your Child's Teeth

March 14th, 2019

Some of our young patients have a problem with tooth grinding.  You might hear your own child rubbing their teeth together.  The sound alone can make a parent go crazy.

Fortunately, tooth grinding is a common occurrence in young children. It may sound bad, but the child often stops doing it around 6 years old, wearing away only their baby teeth.  This makes any treatment to stop tooth grinding in young children usually unnecessary.

If your teenager has a tooth grinding problem, you may want to consider using a night guard.  A night guard is a thin piece of plastic, often molded to your child's teeth, to prevent them for wearing away their permanent teeth.  We can help outfit you with a night guard if we think it's necessary.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to serve all your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Sign Up for Summer 2019 Dental Appointments

February 28th, 2019

With the snow falling recently, you may not think it's time to think of summery weather.  Summer, however, is one of our busiest times of year.  Parents love to schedule appointments when school's out, and they can fill up fast.  So if you want a summer appointment, now's the time to call ahead.

Give your pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentistry a call at (520) 544-8522.  If you have questions about your dental insurance, be sure to ask our friendly staff.  We're happy to see familiar and new smiles at our office this summer!

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to serve all your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Permanent Tooth Coming in Behind Baby Tooth

February 11th, 2019

Children experience a lot of minor issues as they lose baby tooth and their permanent teeth come in.  One thing you might see is that the permanent tooth comes in before the baby tooth is out.  What should a parent do?

Called "shark teeth," this is actually a fairly common and harmless condition.  It happens most often with the child's front teeth, although it can happen elsewhere.  If the baby tooth is loose, encourage your child to wiggle it out.  If the tooth is not very loose, that means the baby tooth's roots may still be in place.  Please call our office to see if you need to schedule an appointment for us to extract the tooth.

Once the baby tooth is out, your child's tongue will push the tooth into its position naturally.  Oftentimes, no other treatment needs to be done.  If your child's permanent teeth has crowding issues, however, you may eventually need to see an orthodontist to have their teeth aligned into place.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to serve all your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

January 31st, 2019

As your pediatric dentists in Tucson, we handle many of your child's dental needs.  If your kid needs braces, however, you must see an orthodontist to correct those issues.  When does this occur?

The answer really will depend on your child, but as a general rule, many children can wait until all permanent teeth have come in before beginning orthodontic therapy. This usually occurs at around 10 to 13 years of age.  However, there are some specific cases in which a child could benefit from orthodontic intervention as early as 5 years of age.   We will help you navigate this process by keeping an eye on your child's teeth and providing recommendations based on our experience.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to serve all your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Children and Toothaches

January 14th, 2019

Veteran parents generally have a good idea of what to do when a child catches a cold or has a fever.  However, they may not know what to do if a child has a toothache.

First, if the child’s face is swollen, apply a cold compress and contact Northwest Children's Dentistry, your Tucson pediatric dentist, immediately.

However, if the child is complaining about a mild toothache, clean the affected tooth thoroughly. Rinse the child’s mouth with warm water or use dental floss to dislodge any food in the gums. DO NOT place aspirin or heat on the gums or on the aching tooth.

If pain persists, contact us.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to serve all your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Baby's First Tooth

January 3rd, 2019

If you are a new parent, you're looking forward to many milestones: first smile, smile word, first crawl.  As pediatric dentists, we look forward to seeing a child's first tooth.

Those first teeth usually erupt around 6 to 8 months old and are called primary teeth. You generally see the two front bottom teeth (lower central incisors) first, followed by the two front top teeth (upper central incisors).  By the time your bundle of joy is 3 years old, they should have all 20 primary teeth. Permanent teeth won't start appearing until your kid turns 6 years old.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to support our Tucson community.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Celebrate Holiday Veggies

December 13th, 2018

Everyone knows that the holidays mean great tasting food.  We hope your family enjoys some delicious holiday eating.  In between the cookies and eggnog, we hope you'll also snack on some veggies too.

Vegetables offer much more than good nutrients and less calories.  Raw vegetables like celery can clean plaque from your teeth.  Raw carrots increase saliva production, which can reduce your risk of cavities.  High dietary fiber, often found in veggies, will massage teeth and gums for cleaner teeth.  All those garden greens go a long way to maintaining a healthy mouth that will keep Santa smiling.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to support our Tucson community.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Toys for Tots at Northwest Children's Dentistry

November 29th, 2018

Thanks to everyone who's donated food to Marana Food Bank at Northwest Children's Dentistry.  We're extending our food donations until December 14th.  As a bonus, we're also collecting for Toys for Tots!

Between now and December 14, 2018, please bring a new, unwrapped toy to our office at 7610 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson any weekday between 8 am and 5 pm.  Everything we collect goes to Toys for Tots to give a deserving child a brighter holiday.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to support our Tucson community.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Northwest Children's Dentistry Collecting for Marana Food Bank

November 5th, 2018

November 1st is the unofficial start of the holiday season.  The staff and pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentistry would like to get into the spirit of the season with food donations for those in need and you can help!

Between now and November 16, 2018, please bring non-perishable food items to our office at 7610 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson any weekday between 8 am and 5 pm.  Everything we collect goes to Marana Food Bank, who serve 65,000 meals daily and serve over 190,000 people in our community every year.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we hope to work together with you to solve local hunger.  If you have any questions for our office, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Follow a Regular Dental Routine

October 25th, 2018

Life can get busy, and sometimes the simple stuff falls to the wayside.  No matter what's on your schedule, we hope you remember to set up a regular dental routine for your child.  Here's what we recommend:

  • Brush twice a day.  Getting in at least two brushes helps reduce your child's risk of cavities.  Try once in the morning and right before bed, the same times your child is getting dressed, to make this easy to remember.
  • Floss once a day.  Flossing gets in between teeth where the brush can't pick.  The easiest time to floss is easier in the morning or night while brushing.
  • Limit sugary drinks.  Kids should drink no more than 4 to 6 oz. of juice a day.  You can make this rule easy by only allowing your child one juice at a specific time, such as during a particular meal.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Have a cavity-free Halloween!

October 11th, 2018

It's that time of year again: pumpkins, costumes, and candy.  Halloween!  We want our patients and their families to enjoy the holiday, so we've provided some tips on how to have a cavity-free Halloween.

  • Don't eat all your Halloween candy at once.  Some kids bring home bags of sugary goodies after a night of trick or treating.  Instead of letting them consume it quickly over a day or two, spread their consumption over the month of November, maybe two of three pieces at most per day.
  • Keep up your normal dental routine.  Families get busy over the holidays, but don't get too busy that you forget to brush twice a day and floss once.  You can do an extra brushing if your kids eat a lot of sugars at a Halloween party.
  • Hand out non-candy treats.  Kids love non-candy based trick or treat items such as stickers, play-doh, or dollar store items.  See if you can limit how much candy gets passed around your neighborhood.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Why Get Sealants?

September 25th, 2018

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we believe that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  We want to stop dental problems before they start, which is why we might recommend your child get sealants.

A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating secured to the chewing surface of the tooth.  Many permanent molars erupt with deep pits and grooves. The sealant fills these areas to create a barrier to keep food and bacteria out.  This simple procedure can reduce the risk of tooth decay by up to 50%.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Role Baby Teeth Play in Dental Health

September 13th, 2018

Baby teeth sometimes get a bad rap as not being as "important" as the permanent teeth that grow in after them.  Baby teeth, however, play an important role in children's dental development that should not be ignored.

Baby teeth play a role in proper chewing and eating.  They promote correct speech development.  They hold space for permanent teeth, guiding them into the correct position, which in turn aids in the normal development of jaw bones and muscles.  Neglected baby tooth cavities can be painful and, in some cases, progress to serious infection.  The back molars will last until your child is between 10 to 13 years of age.  And finally, the aesthetics of nice baby teeth can give your kid a healthy-looking smile.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Involving Parents in Dental Health

August 30th, 2018

We all have memories of what going to the dentist means from our childhood.  Some of us may remember our parents sitting in the lobby while having work done.  New patients sometimes ask us if it is okay to accompany their child to the dentist chair.

The truth is, the pediatric dentists and staff at Northwest Children's Dentistry would actually prefer parents accompany children.  We know the best way to maintain good teeth is preventative techniques, like brushing and flossing, and we need parents' help to make sure children have a consistent routine.  To that end, our examination areas are open so that parents feel welcome with us.  We encourage lots of questions and hope you won't hesitate to air all your concerns.  At the end of the day, communication between our staff and parents will result in the best possible outcome for your child.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Pediatric Dentistry's Top 3 Prevention Techniques

August 13th, 2018

An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure.  There are three basic prevention techniques that can drastically reduce the cavity formation.  Let's go over each one in turn:

  1. Brushing: This one should come to no surprise to anyone.  Brushing removes harmful bacteria that can cause cavities in your child's mouth.  You should brush twice a day.
  2. Flossing: Flossing is like brushing in between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach.  Floss at least once a deal.
  3. Sealants: A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that is bonded to the chewing surface of the tooth. The sealant fills the deep pits and grooves of molars, providing a barrier to keep food and bacteria out, thus reducing the risk of decay by up to 50%.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Does Xylitol Really Help Reduce Cavities?

July 26th, 2018

As your Tucson-based pediatric dentist, we receive all sorts of questions from our patients and their families.  One that comes up periodically is: Does xylitol realy help reduce cavities?

The surprising answer is yes. Dental research shows that xylitol can help change the type of bacteria inside the mouth from cavity-causing bacteria to one that is less likely to cause cavities. Xylitol also helps reduce plaque formation and the amount of bacteria overall that sticks to teeth.

Xylitol is commonly purchased as a chewing gum and can be used by children who are mature enough to use it.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

How to Cavity-Proof your Child's Teeth

July 12th, 2018

Many children receive cavities, but your child doesn't have to be one of them.  Here are some ways to reduce your child's risk of cavities:

  • Brush twice a day.  There's a reason pediatric dentists love to give kids toothbrushes.  Brushing twice a day helps reduce many dental ailments, including cavities.
  • Floss once a day.  Flossing helps get in between your teeth where the toothbrush can't go, so it's important to have a daily routine of flossing.
  • Limit sugary snacks and drinks.   Food and drinks high in sugar cause the most cavities, so limiting them is not only good for your body as a whole, but also for your teeth.
  • Make sure your child gets enough fluoride.  Drinking water and toothpaste can contain fluoride to fight cavities.  We can help you determine if your child needs a fluoride supplement.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

How to Deal with a Lost Baby Tooth

June 28th, 2018

Children lose their baby teeth all the time when their permanent teeth come in, but what happens if your child loses a baby tooth in an accident before that happens?  Here's what you should do:

If your child loses a baby tooth, do not put it back in their mouth.  Rinse the child's mouth with watch and apply a cold compress to reduce facial swelling. Keep the tooth and call us, your Tucson pediatric dentist, to see if we need to see your child.

If your child doesn't lose a baby tooth, but it is knocked out of place, rinse the child’s mouth with water and apply a cold compress to reduce facial swelling. In most cases, no emergency care is necessary. Call us to see if we should see your child.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Pediatric Dentist

June 14th, 2018

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we don't like to overwhelm families with dental terminology that leaves you confused.  One question we receive is what is the difference between an orthodontist vs. a dentist.

Dentistry is a broad term that covers any medical treatment of the teeth, gums, and jaw.  Within dentistry, there are many specialties.   Dr. Bunch and Dr. Marshall are pediatric dentists, meaning they received extra education specifically on the treatment of children aged 17 years and under.  Pediatric dentistry is important because a child's growing teeth have different needs than an adult.

Orthodontics is another dental specialty that focuses on correcting bites and the straightness of teeth.  Orthodontics are the dentists who will put braces on your children.  Teeth alignment is important because it can prevent more extensive dental work later in life.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs or refer you to an orthodontist if you need one.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

In-Office Fluoride Treatments

May 31st, 2018

If you've been to our office, you may have had an in-office fluoride treatments.  What does that mean for your child?

We use fluoride treatments because they have been shown to decrease tooth decay rates. We typically recommend in-office fluoride treatments twice per year for all ages. For those children with high risk for tooth decay, we recommend these treatments more often.

For toddlers and preschoolers, we use a topical fluoride varnish that is “painted” onto the teeth, which does not require the child to wait 30 minutes to eat or drink.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Summer Snack List

May 17th, 2018

Summer's upon us, and the kids will likely be hanging around the house more often.  What should you feed them?  You have lots of options, but here is a list of summer snacks that will keep their teeth healthy:

  • Apple wedges
  • Fresh veggies with hummus
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Nuts
  • Summer berries
  • Cubes of cheese and crackers
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Watermelon
  • Celery and peanut butter
  • Trail mix
  • Bananas
  • Dried fruit

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Traveling, Kids, and Dental Health

April 30th, 2018

The summer's coming up, and that means many of our patients will be taking trips.  Just because your normal routine has changed doesn't mean your dental routine should!  Here's some tips to stay on top of dental hygiene while on the road:

  • Brush at the beginning and ending of each day.  No matter what happens in the middle of your crazy day, you can also brush first thing in the morning and right before bedtime at the hotel.
  • Pack plenty of floss.  Don't give up flossing just because you're not at home.
  • Have your child pick a special toothbrush.  Brushing can seem like a chore on the road, but bringing a special toothbrush might make brushing seem like part of the magic of vacation.
  • Choose water when you can.  It may be tempting to drink lots of juice and soda while traveling, but try to limit your child's intake to more than 6 oz. of these liquids each day.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

When to Make a Pediatric Dental Appointment

April 9th, 2018

As adults, we're told to see the dentist twice a year.  But what about children?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry states your child should see the dentist every 6 months.  That's because pediatric dentists work at preventing many dental problems in children, and a twice yearly check-up will more likely catch dental problems before they require more invasive treatments.

You may think you don't need to schedule an appointment for kids with baby teeth.  Their permanent teeth haven't grown in, so it's no big deal, right?  Actually, you should see a dentist around your child's first birthday.  That's because cavities can form at any age, and those problems can impact the health of permanent teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Five Ws (and one H) of Flossing

April 2nd, 2018

Prevention is the best kind of medicine, and flossing is a great tool in your dental health tool belt.  Let's go over the basic questions of flossing:

  • Who should floss?  Everyone, of course!  Even kids.
  • Why should kids floss?  Because food and other bacteria can get stuck between a child's teeth, and over time, that can cause tooth decay and loss.
  • What should kids floss with?  Either disposable flossers or regular floss works fine.
  • When should kids start flossing?  Once their teeth touch each other.  This can even happen with your child's baby teeth.
  • Where should kids floss?  Make sure your kids floss along each sides of the tooth.  You're trying to remove food particles where your brush can't reach.
  • How often should kids floss?  We recommend once per day.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Sign up for your 2018 Summer Dental Appointment

March 12th, 2018

Summer may feel like a long time away, but it's one of our busiest seasons at Northwest Children's Dentistry.  If you'd like to schedule your child's summer dental appointment, now would be a good time to call in.  Make an appointment today at (520) 544-8522.


As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  Let us know if you have any question about your child's dental health.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Dental Dangers of Lip and Tongue Piercings

March 1st, 2018

Do you have a teenager who wants to get a lip or tongue piercing?  It may look cool, but oral piercings pose many hazards to your child's teeth.

  • Infection and Swelling: The most common complaint after an oral piercing is infection and swelling.  This can cause pain, and if left untreated in some cases, create dental problems down the road.
  • Chipped or cracked teeth: Hard metal studs inside the mouth can cause damage to the teeth, which may require dental procedures to fix.
  • Nerve Damage: A tongue piercing can lead to nerve damage.  Although most will go away a few hours after the piercing, there is a risk for more long-term damage that will require your child see a pediatric dentist.  Severe nerve damage can affect your child's sense of taste and smell.

If your child is serious about getting an oral piercing, make sure they know the risks and have them be prepared to talk to their dentist if any of the above problems occur.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Happy 2018 National Children's Dental Health Month!

February 15th, 2018

Every February, we celebrate National Children's Dental Health Month to spread awareness about good dental hygiene and your child.  The American Dental Association has chosen “Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth for a healthy smile” as this year's theme!

You can download posters, coloring sheets, and other educational resources following the link below:

https://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/national-childrens-dental-health-month

Feel free to share these resources with your child’s preschool, school, or after school program to maintain those beautiful smiles.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Thumb Sucking and Your Child's Dental Health

January 30th, 2018

Kids can have lots of bad habits, but one that we hear about frequently is thumb sucking.  Fortunately, thumb sucking is quite common and harmless for babies and toddlers.  Many children will even stop on their own.

If your child reaches 2.5 years old and still sucks their thumb, it may be time to intervene.  We strongly encourage using positive reinforcement and rewards to break the habit.  A reward chart for not sucking a thumb can motivate some children.  Even something as simple as excited, encouraging words can motivate many children to stop.

If you are still frustrated with this habit, talk to us about options.  We can give you personalized suggestions at your next appointment.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Sedation Dentistry

January 18th, 2018

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we receive a lot of questions from parents, especially when a child needs a dental procedure.  Some of the most common questions revolve around sedation.

Sedation dentistry is the use of relaxation techniques to accomplish more comfortable dental treatment.  Sedation dentistry is safe and endorsed by the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.  Our pediatric dentists may suggest sedation dentistry for a variety of reasons, including during a major treatment, dental anxiety, low pain tolerance, trouble holding still, or for special needs patients.

The two most common types of sedation we use at our office is nitrous oxide (commonly known as “laughing gas”) or IV sedation, where the child is put to sleep.

If we recommend sedation dentistry, we will always sit down with you and explain why we recommend it.  As a parent, you will know what you can expect and have ample opportunity to ask us questions about any procedures done on your child.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Make Dental Health Your New Year's Resolution

January 4th, 2018

Happy New Year!   If you're looking to start 2018 off right, how about a New Year's resolution to keep your kids' teeth healthy.  It's easier than you think.  Here are some tips to help you:

  • Brush and floss at the same time each day.  People do better when they make healthy choices a habit.  Have your kids brush and floss at the same time each day, preferably after meals.  This will help them establish the best practice against tooth decay: preventative cleaning.
  • Reduce your sugar intake.  Resolve to cut back on sugar and feel health benefits for your entire body, including your teeth.  Limiting things like juice and candy can go a long way towards this goal.
  • Know what to do in case of a dental emergency.  We've got a handy list of what to do in case of dental emergencies that should help you in many common situations.
  • Schedule dental cleanings twice a year.  As your local pediatric dentist in Tucson, we'd much rather clean healthy teeth than perform procedures.  Checking your kids' teeth twice a year gives us a chance to give you personalized tips on how to avoid common dental ailments.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

What to Do if Your Child Loses a Permanent Tooth

November 30th, 2017

It's every parent's worst dental nightmare: your kid has an accident and loses a permanent tooth.  You may think your child is out of luck, but there are still things you can do.  Follow these steps to help save the child's tooth:

  1. First, find the tooth. Handle it by the crown (top) of the tooth, not by the root.  In this case, handling the tooth less is better than more.
  2. Very GENTLY rinse the tooth with water. DO NOT clean with soap.
  3. Inspect the tooth for fractures. If it is sound, try to reinsert it in the socket. Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting down on gauze. If you cannot re-insert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing the patient’s saliva or milk.  You can use ice water in a pinch if milk is not available. If the patient is old enough, the tooth may also be carried in the patient’s mouth (beside the cheek).
  4. Time is a critical in saving the tooth, so please call us immediately for an emergency consultation.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Se Habla Español

November 16th, 2017

Para su conveniencia, se habla español en la oficina para atender a nuestros pacientes en su idioma.

Para más información llame a (520) 544-8522.

 

 

 

 

 

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Talking to Your Kid About the Dentist

November 2nd, 2017

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we want your kids to have a positive image of the dentist.  We do our best to maintain a fun, friendly atmosphere where kids want to come see us.  You can help us by using positive words when talking to your kids about visiting the dentist:

  • Use gentle words when describing the dentist.  The words we use matter!  In our office, we try not to scare children about the procedures they might encounter.  We will sometimes call a shot "sleepy juice," for example.  You can help us out by also using these less scary words.
  • Don't share scary dentist stories.  Dentistry has changed a lot in the last century.  You or a relative may have had an awful experience growing up.  That doesn't mean all dentists are scary!  Try not to paint dentists as scary, and it will help your kid be more confident when they visit us.
  • Tell your child they can look forward to visiting us.  We try to provide a fun atmosphere in our office.  We have toys, books, and prizes that we give away to your children.  Remind your child that visiting us is a treat, not a chore.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Halloween Tips from Your Pediatric Dentist

October 19th, 2017

Halloween is almost upon us!  Between costumes, parties, and candy, it's a holiday made for family.  As your local Tucson pediatric dentist, we want to make sure your child makes it through Halloween without any dental issues.  Here are some tips in keeping healthy while enjoying this spooky season:

  • Limit sugar intake for your children.  Processed sugar can lead to cavities on your child's teeth.  So go ahead and have fun trick or treating, but spread out the candy consumption.  Let your child eat a few pieces of candy a day, for example, rather than devouring the entire bag in one sitting.
  • Keep up your flossing and brushing routine.  During the holidays, it's more important than ever that your child brush and floss to keep their teeth healthy from an uptick in sugary treats.
  • Consider passing out non-sugary treats at your house.  You can help your community's kids by considering these fun items instead of candy at trick or treat time.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

October 5th, 2017

Northwest Children's Dentistry is a husband-wife pediatric dentist team located in Tucson, Arizona.  If you're wondering why you should choose a pediatric dentist over a general dentist to take care of your child's teeth, here are a few reasons:

  • Pediatric dentists are trained specifically in children's dental health.  After graduating from general dental school, pediatric dentists go on to study for another degree on dental care for children.
  • Pediatric dentists have a lot of techniques to make kids feel comfortable and welcome in the dentists' chair.  We know that kids can be intimidated at the dentist, and we work hard to make them comfortable at our office.
  • Pediatric dentists only see children as patients every day.  Just like your pediatrician only sees children in their medical practices, we see kids day-in and day-out.  We know kids, and we focus all our attention on their unique dental issues.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

"Made in the Shades" Sunglasses Contest

September 21st, 2017

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we try to make our office a fun place for kids to visit.  We decided recently to give away sunglasses to all of our patients during their appointment, and with that giveaway, offer kids a chance to win more.

Welcome to our "Made in the Shades" contest! If you post pictures of your kids wearing their Northwest Children's Dentistry sunglasses to our Facebook wall, you will be entered into a random drawing to win a prize. One winner will be selected each month to win. It's soooo sunny here in Tucson, you can enter a picture with your cuties in sunglasses every month while the contest lasts.

Stay tuned for September's prize!

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

What is a Sealant?

September 7th, 2017

We receive a lot of questions about the procedures we perform on our patients.  One thing we might recommend for your child is a sealant.

A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that bonds a tooth's surface.  Your child's permanent molars may have deep pits and grooves that make them impossible to brush properly, which can lead to harmful bacteria forming on the tooth.  When this happens, we recommend filling those areas with a sealant to keep food and bacteria out of your child's teeth.  This reduces the risk of dental decay by up to 50%.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Preparing Your Child's Teeth for Fall Sports

August 17th, 2017

It's back to school time, and with it, a host of after school activities.  Your child may be enrolled in a sports program.  Here are some tips for protecting your child's teeth as they become active this fall:

  • If the sport is high impact, you may want to consider a custom mouth guard for your child.  Custom mouth guards protect your child's teeth in case of injury and are more comfortable to wear than store bought ones.
  • Know what to do in case of a dental emergency.  Our kids dentist website has a list of what to do in case of dental emergencies.
  • Have your pediatric dentist's number on your phone.  Northwest Children's Dentistry's phone number is (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions or concerns, no matter what time of day.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Dealing with Dental Emergencies

August 3rd, 2017

Kids lead active lives and can find themselves in all kinds of predicaments.  As a parent, you know to be prepared in case an emergency arises.  If your child has a dental emergency, here are the following steps you can take:

1. In a life threatening situation, call 9-1-1.  Never hesitate if you feel your child's life is in danger.

2. In a non-life threatening situation, you may be able to perform on-the-spot care.  You can find a list of what we recommend on this Dental Emergencies page.

3. Call your dentist.  In severe cases, we may be able to help save a tooth.  Northwest Children's Dentistry's phone number is (520) 544-8522.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

When Will My Kid Lose Their Baby Teeth?

July 17th, 2017

Kids hit all kinds of milestones as they enter kindergarten: first day of school, first friends, first report cards.  But when will your child lose their first baby teeth?

Kids generally lose their first baby teeth between 5-6 years old, although a kid can lose their baby teeth as young as 4 and as old as 7.  So if your child's kindergarten classmates are losing their teeth, but your kiddo isn't, don't worry.  They still have plenty of time to get that first tooth fairy visit.  Generally, the front bottom two teeth are the first to go.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Tips for Dealing with Mouth Cuts

June 8th, 2017

As all parents know, kids are active, and they get cuts and scrapes every now and again.  While we're all used to cuts on the knees and arms, a cut that causing bleeding in the mouth may alarm you.  But don't panic.  Here are tips to help:

Most mouth cuts need pressure.  If your child has a cut tongue, lip or cheek, apply firm but gentle pressure with a gauze or cloth. If bleeding cannot be stopped by simple pressure after a few minutes, call your pediatrician or visit the hospital emergency room.

If your child experiences any swelling around the area, apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the area to sooth your child's pain.

If your child cuts their gums, it will likely bleed.  Follow the rules above.  If you have any concerns at all, do not hesitate to contact us at our office.  We do perform emergency dental services for kids when needed.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Does My Teen Need Wisdom Teeth Removed?

May 25th, 2017

As we grow older, we get wiser.  And then there's wisdom teeth.  We meet many parents of teenagers who worry about what age is right to have wisdom teeth removed.

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we can monitor your child's wisdom teeth.  Some kids won't have any.  Still others won't need them removed if they are positioned safely.  But if it looks like your child's wisdom teeth might impact other teeth around them and cause dental harm, we will refer you to an oral surgeon.  These specialized dentists have lots of experience in safely removing wisdom teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Protecting Your Child's Teeth During Sports Practice

May 11th, 2017

If you have an active kid, odds are good that they're involved in one or several sports.  Sports are a great way for your child to stay healthy.

Sports also carry a slight risk of injury to your child's teeth, especially if your child plays a high impact sport like football.  If you're worried about this, we urge you to visit our pediatric dental office.  We can create a custom mouth guard for your child that will wear comfortably and securely in their mouths.  It provides an extra bit of protection so you can enjoy the game rather than worry about your child's teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Keeping your Toddler's Teeth Healthy

April 27th, 2017

Those baby teeth may be just growing in, but they play an important part of your children's overall health.  There are many ways you can keep your toddler's emerging teeth healthy:

  • Brush twice a day.  Even at this young age, baby teeth can use a little brushing.  It also instills lifelong healthy habits of brushing.
  • Limit juice to 4 to 6 oz. per day.  Drinking lots of juice can cause cavities in young teeth.  Offer your child water or milk instead.
  • Wean off bottles and sippy cups.  Sucking from a bottle or sippy pools the liquid around the child's teeth, where it can cause more damage.  Have your child move to regular cups as soon as they can handle it.
  • Don't offer a night time drink (unless it's water).  Drinking right before bed without brushing can increase your child's risk of cavities.  If your child needs a drink, you can offer water.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Make Your Summer Dental Appointment Today!

April 17th, 2017

It may only be April, but summer is right around the corner.  Lots of parents like to schedule their children's dental appointments when school lets to minimize disruption from studies.  This makes summer one of the busiest times of year in our office.

If you want a spot that works with your family's busy summer schedule, call and make an appointment today at (520) 544-8522!

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

When Can My Child Use an Adult Toothbrush?

March 27th, 2017

Parents ask us many questions about dental care and decay prevention.  The best thing your child can do is brush regularly, twice a day for two minutes each.  When your child is a young, that often means with a smaller toothbrush.

When can your child use an adult toothbrush?  Generally, their mouths are big enough around 9 or 10 years of age.  The brush should fit comfortably in their mouths and should be able to reach their back teeth without gagging.  The same general rule of brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes each still applies.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

How Your Child Benefits from Regular Dental Checkups

March 16th, 2017

Working in a team of experienced pediatric dentists and staff, we see a lot of childhood dental problems.  Some of these problems are unavoidable.  Kids get into accidents that affect their teeth.  Some diseases are just luck on the draw.  We're here to help as you need it.  Fortunately, you can reduce your child's risk of needing invasive dental work by having routine checkups.

During checkups, our staff will examine your teeth.  We will tell you about problem areas and mark them in your child's file, to make sure we monitor those areas over time.  Regular in-office cleanings will also ensure you're not missing brushing and flossing key spots at home.  If we catch a problem early, we may be able to recommend a non-invasive way for you to keep your child's teeth strong at home.

Our end goal is to have your child only see us for routine checkups, if at all possible.  Healthy young teeth age into working older teeth that keeps your child smiling throughout a lifetime.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Safety of Dental X-Rays

March 2nd, 2017

As experienced kids' dentists of Tucson, we see lots of kids and lots of smiles.  We pride ourselves on preventative dental care.   We believe in the proven practices of tooth brushing and flossing so that your child will not experience cavities and other dental problems.

Part of preventative dental care means x-rays.  Understandably, when x-rays are involved, parents have lots of questions.  How much is enough?  How safe are x-rays?  Are they worth the risk of exposure?

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we tailor x-rays to each child's individual risk assessment.  We use digital radiography and shielding. This state-of-the-art technology minimizes your child’s exposure to radiation. We also only take x-rays of your child periodically, so we can evaluate problems that lurk in your child's teeth that we can't see on the surface.  This allows us to balance good dental health and low x-ray exposure.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Happy National Children's Dental Health Month!

February 16th, 2017

Happy National Children's Dental Health Month!  Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we don't need a reason to celebrate your child's beautiful smile, but we'll take one anyway.  This year's theme is "Choose Tap Water for a Healthy Smile."  You can download posters, coloring sheets, and other educational resources here at the American Dental Association:

http://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/national-childrens-dental-health-month

Maintaining good dental health is important for a lifetime of healthy teeth.  Feel free to share these resources with  your child's preschool, school, or after school program to maintain those lovely grins.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Evaluating Your Child for Braces

February 2nd, 2017

When parents think of children and their teeth, they often think of braces.  They have a lot of questions such as are they needed, when are they needed, and how long will they need them for.

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we specialize in pediatric dentistry, meaning we will be the first doctors you will ask these questions too.  We will evaluate your child to see if braces are needed.  Generally, braces are needed between 10-13 years of age.  If we feel your child will need braces, we will help get you to an orthodontist, doctors who specialize in braces and other improper bite issues.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Teenagers and Dental Health

January 19th, 2017

When people see the term "pediatric dentist" they often think it is a dentist for little children, and that is correct.  Pediatric dentists, like Dr. Bunch and Dr. Marshall at Northwest Children's Dentistry, though, are trained to see patients ranging from birth to 17 years in age.  Even teenagers have needs that differ from adults, and a pediatric dentist knows how to best evaluate your growing teen's teeth.

Why is it important that a teenager keep seeing the dentist?  Besides the obvious issues of cavities and gingivitis, teenagers are still losing teeth.  Sometimes during these years we can recommend a child get braces, which will help align teeth into adulthood.  Maintaining a healthy dental habits now will aid your child in keeping their teeth well into adulthood and even when they become senior citizens.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Eliminating Dental Anxiety at Northwest Children's Dentistry

January 5th, 2017

We personally have fond memories of our childhood dentist, but not all parents are so lucky.  You may remember dreading seeing your dentist, for a variety of reasons, and that may make you hesitant to bring your child into our office.

We here at Northwest Children's Dentistry are committed to eliminate dental anxiety in both children and their caregivers.  We know that creating a safe, welcoming environment where you can ask questions and feel comfortable will keep you coming back, and thus, keep your teeth healthier in the long run.  Here are a few of the many ways we do that:

  • Dr. Bunch and Dr. Marshall are trained pediatric dentists, meaning they received extra certification for taking care of small children.  We know that children at not just little adults and need extra time and attention to meet their needs.
  • Our dentists and staff are trained to answer every question with patience and courtesy.
  • Our open bay seating creates an open space where parents and children don't feel cramped in a small space.
  • We talk about all procedures before we do them and use words that young children understand (such as saying "taking pictures of your teeth" instead of "taking x-rays.")

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Truth About Tooth Grinding

December 15th, 2016

Does your young child grind their teeth?  Does the sound make you want to grind yours?  Teeth grinding can make any parent frustrated, but how bad is it?

Teeth grinding in young children is usually harmless.  Many toddlers and preschoolers do it, and most of them quit on their own by the age of six.  At this stage, treatment is not normally needed.

However, once a child's permanent teeth start coming in, grinding can lead to problems.  An excessive grinder can use a night guard, a molded piece of plastic that children can wear in their mouths to stop them from wearing out adult teeth.  You can buy them over the counter, but we recommend asking us about having one made at your regular dental check-up.  We can tell you how severe we think the tooth grinding is and also give you options for a custom fit night guard, which will be more comfortable for your child.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Tips for Holiday Travel and Dental Health

December 1st, 2016

The holidays are upon us, and chances are, you've got plans.  Many of our patients will be traveling far and wide to visit Grandma across the state or family in other countries.

To make things easy, we've provided the following tips for keeping your teeth healthy during your holiday travels:

  • Store toothbrushes in a case or bag by itself.  Toothbrushes have a tendency to stay wet, especially if you need to "brush and go" in the morning.  Buying a small case or even putting your toothbrush in a plastic bag will keep that moisture from getting into other things in your toiletry bag.
  • Pack some dental floss.  You should be flossing every day, even on vacation, but you also never know when you'll need to get rid of something in between your teeth.  Make sure dental floss is with your other personal hygiene items.
  • Buy small tubes of toothpastes for flights.  If you buy travel sized toothpaste containers, you can take them through airport security and not have to check your baggage or spend precious holiday time at the store buying more toothpaste.
  • Keep your normal dental routines.  It can be easy to forget to brush your teeth when your child's routine is all messed up, but remember, holidays are one of the most important times to brush and floss.  Kids are eating more goodies and sugary foods.  Brushing is an easy way to prevent larger dental bills and work.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Common Causes of Cavities

November 17th, 2016

A cavity is a hole in the tooth created by tooth decay.  They can become painful over time and may lead to the destruction of the tooth.  Cavities are caused when plaque forms on the tooth.  As the plaque hardens, it causes more damage to the tooth.

So what causes plaque to form?  Here are the most common culprits:

  • Consuming too much sugar.  The bacteria that forms plaque loves sugar.  Eating sugar or drinking sugar-enhanced drinks gives those bacteria a place to thrive.
  • Not brushing enough.  Plaque doesn't form instantly, but needs time to set in.  Brushing away plaque while it is soft can reduce your cavity risk.
  • Not flossing enough.  Brushing can't effectively get between teeth, so if you don't floss, plaque can form there.  This is especially true if your teeth are crowded in your mouth together.

Create an environment for your child to eat well and practice good dental hygiene to reduce cavity risk and preserve their teeth for years to come.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Why Your Toddler Should See a Pediatric Dentist

November 3rd, 2016

Parents know about the importance of dentists, but they may think that a young child like a toddler doesn't need to worry just yet.  Your kid just got his/her baby teeth, so there's no need to worry about a dentist, right?

The American Academy for Pediatric Dentistry actually recommends children begin routine visits around their first birthday.  Seeing a dentist early sets your child on the path to maintaining strong, healthy teeth for the rest of their lives. The younger a child is introduced to the dentist, the easier it is to develop positive associations that will follow them into adulthood.

Pediatric dentists like those at Northwest Children's Dentistry receive a year of specialized training to treat young children.  We know that dental visits can seem overwhelming to a small child, so we do everything in our power to make it a fun experience.  Prevention is also an integral part of our practice so any issues can be addressed and treated early or often avoided altogether.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Teal Pumpkin Project and Your Child's Dental Health

October 20th, 2016

Last year, we posted a popular blog about on non-food treats you can hand out for Halloween.  We encourage handing out stickers, play-doh and other fun goodies to avoid overloading your child with sugar, which can cause tooth decay.  As it turns out, there's another great reason to hand out non-food items at Halloween: children with food allergies.

Halloween can be a difficult time for kids with food allergies.  Some of the more common allergies, such as nuts, can be life-threatening for children.  These children want to participate in Halloween, but with a severe allergy, kids can't even eat food that has been processed in a factory that also handles nuts.  This can make Halloween stressful for these kids.

The Teal Pumpkin Project was created to raise awareness of this issue.  If you decide to hand out non-food treats this Halloween, simply place a teal pumpkin outside your door so that kids with food allergies know you are a safe place to get treats.  You can still hand out candy, but if you have other non-food options at hand, you can help include kids with food allergies into the festivities of Halloween.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Visual Appeal of Metal-Free Fillings

October 6th, 2016

Northwest Children's Dentistry prides itself on prevention whenever possible, but there may come a time when your child needs a filling.  There are many different types of filling materials available, but metal-free fillings are popular because we can restore your child's smile so that you never notice the cavity.

Determining what type of filling is best for your child (either metal or metal-free) depends on location of the cavity and the aesthetics of how it looks.  We generally recommend metal-free fillings for front and other highly visible teeth because they can be color matched.  We can use them to repair chipped, broken, or cracked teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Why Your Child Might Need Sealants

September 22nd, 2016

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we pride ourselves in preventing dental problems before they start.  That is why sometimes we may recommend a sealant.

A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that we bond to a tooth's surface. Sometimes permanent molars erupt with deep pits and grooves on the chewing surface. These areas can be impossible to clean with even the best brushing skills. The sealant fills the deep pits and grooves, providing a barrier to keep food and bacteria out, thus reducing the risk of decay by up to 50%.

Each child is different, so if we do recommend a sealant, we will discuss the benefits to your child.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

What is Gingivitis?

August 25th, 2016

Commercials for toothpaste always talk about gingivitis.  It sounds scary, but what exactly is it?

Gingivitis is a common form of gum disease that causes your gums to be irritated, turn red, or swell.  Although it can be mild, you should treat gingivitis so it does not turn into a more serious gum disease, or worse, cause you to lose a tooth.

Routine dental hygiene such as brushing and flossing will help prevent gingivitis.  Regular dental check-ups, such as the ones performed by Northwest Children's Dentistry, will help remove any plaque and tartar build-up on your child's teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Back to School Nutrition

August 10th, 2016

It's that time of year again when parents are buying back to school supplies and gearing up for another year.  Children consume up to half of their daily caloric intake at school, so knowing what your child eats at school is important.

As children's dentists, we care about your child's dental well being year round.  Whether your kid eats a school-provided lunch or you are preparing lunch at home, here are some tips on what to provide during the academic year:

  • Limit juice intake to 4-6 ounces a day.  Juice consumption can cause cavities in young teeth.  Opt instead for water or milk.
  • Provide 1-2 servings of fruits or vegetables with every meal.  Fresh produce often helps clean children's teeth and often full of nutrients too.
  • Avoid processed food whenever possible.  Processed food tends to contain higher amounts of sugar, which can damage teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Creating the Right Dental Environment for Your Child

July 28th, 2016

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we know that creating a comfortable environment is important for kids coming into our office.  Any place away from home can seem scary to a kid, especially a medical office which has instruments and equipment a child may not be familiar with.  We take pride in making our office kid friendly from the moment you enter our office.

Here are ways we make our pediatric dental office pleasing to kids:

  • Decorating the office with bright, kid friendly colors and pictures.  Our waiting room includes kid friendly books and magazines, a hut to play pretend inside, and games to try.
  • Maintaining an open dental bay area where kids and parents have plenty of room to sit and relax.
  • Keeping the closed rooms (where x-rays and other dental procedures take place) bright and cheery.
  • Celebrating holidays and other festivities with "costume days" where the staff dresses up for the kids.
  • Encouraging kids and parents to ask questions about anything and everything we do.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Choosing the Right Toothpaste for Your Child

July 14th, 2016

There are literally hundreds of toothpaste options out there for your child.  Which one should you choose?

The most important thing you should look for when going toothpaste shopping is the "American Dental Association" logo of approval.  Their logo means the toothpaste has been tested by specialists who understand teeth.  If you use a brand of toothpaste without this recommendation, it could contain harsh abrasives that could hurt teeth.

The amount of toothpaste you use is also important to consider.  For toddlers, use only a slight smear of toothpaste while brushing.  For preschoolers up to early elementary aged kids, use only a pea-sized amount.  These young children often swallow toothpaste on accident, so keeping the toothpaste to this amount will minimize digestion while still giving you the advantages of using toothpaste.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Vegetables and Your Child's Dental Health

June 30th, 2016

Every pediatric dentist will tell you that your child should eat vegetables, but why is that?  Here are some fun facts on how vegetables help keep your child's teeth healthy:

  • Raw vegetables like celery freshen breath and help clean plaque from teeth.
  • Vegetables high in vitamin C protect the tissue in your mouth, including gums, from bacterial infection.
  • Folic acid, found in leafy green vegetables, supports cell growth throughout the body, promoting a healthy mouth.
  • Eating raw carrots at the end of a meal increases saliva production, which reduces your risk of cavities.
  • Vegetables with high dietary fiber will massage teeth and gums, helping maintain clean teeth.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Sedation and Pediatric Dentistry

June 16th, 2016

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we pride ourselves on emphasizing prevention and good dental hygiene.  Having good dental habits will go a long ways to avoid any procedures at our office.  But even the most vigilant parent will sometimes have a child who needs a dental treatment.

In many cases, sedation is not needed for dental procedures.  However, if your child has a high need for a procedure and has trouble sitting still, has low pain tolerance, has special needs, or depending on the treatment, we may recommend sedation.  Sedation dentistry is safe and endorsed by the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

The two most common types of sedation we use at our office is nitrous oxide (commonly known as "laughing gas") or IV sedation, where the child is put to sleep.  If we recommend IV sedation, we will always take the time to sit down with you and explain why we recommend it and what you can expect, along with providing you forms to take home and think about.  As a parent, you will always be welcome to be with the child if we administer IV sedation.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Getting Kids Comfortable in the Dentist Chair

June 2nd, 2016

It's a common stereotype that people are afraid to go the dentist.  Add onto the fact that you might be taking a toddler or young child to see the dentist, and you might dread the appointment more than your child.  But here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we are trained pediatric dentists who take pride in making you and your child comfortable each time they visit the dentist.  We believe that positive experiences will encourage kids to want to return, which in turn increases the likelihood that your child will maintain healthy teeth over a lifetime.

Here are some of the ways we try to make our dental experience a pleasant one:

  • Explaining every step of the way: We let our patients know what we're doing before we do it so nothing is a surprise.
  • Creating an open environment: Our exam rooms are open so that you don't feel closed off and can see what's going on around you.
  • Encouraging questions: Knowledge gives you power, so we want you and your child to ask us as many questions as you need.
  • Using positive language: We avoid anxiety-inducing words that may cause your kid unnecessary worry.
  • Rewarding the experience: We give out small prizes to kids after the exam as a positive reminder of both their good behavior and a good experience.
As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Northwest Children's Dentistry Averages 5-Star Reviews

May 19th, 2016

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we pride ourselves in providing top quality dental care for your child.  We want our little patients to have a positive experience in our office so they will want to return again.  This is why we carefully choose the pediatric dental words we use around kids, and we always spend extra time with parents explaining any and all questions.

That is why we are thrilled to have an average 5-star review on both Google and Yelp.  Read what some parents are saying about Northwest Children's Dentistry:

"My 2 boys have been coming here are over a year now.  I'm always greeting with a smile from all the staff and Dr Bunch.  The office is set up so the kids feel comfortable.  They always explain to the children, even my 23 month old, what they are doing in terms that they can understand."

 

"I was blown away this morning at how wonderful each of the staff members are at Northwest Children's Dentistry! Both my girls were apprehensive prior to the appointment but upon leaving they asked when their next appointment would be."

 

"Dr. Marshall was sweet and quick.  After getting his teeth all cleaned and accounted for, he received a token to pick out a toy in the main waiting area.  It was the only thing that motivated him to get through the cleaning so we were both excited about that!"

Our goal is to continue providing the children of Tucson top quality dental care to maintain this level of service.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Get Ready for your Summer Appointments

May 5th, 2016

The days are getting longer, school is about to let out, and the air conditioner is on 24/7.  Summertime is approaching the Tucson area!

Summertime is one of our busiest seasons for appointments.  Many families take vacations and have other scheduling conflicts.  If you'd like to see us this summer and have only a narrow window to come in, now is a good time to make your appointment.  Call us at (520) 544-8522, and we'll try to find a time that best fits your needs.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to take care of all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Cavities Can Form at Any Age

April 21st, 2016

One of your baby's first milestones is having the front teeth come in.  Parents love to watch those small toothy grins.  What many do not realize, though, is that cavities can form as soon as that first tooth emerges.

Here are some tips to keep that baby smile free from cavities:

  • Don't put a child to bed with a bottle of milk.  A sleeping infant or toddler can leave a pool of milk around their teeth as they sleep, increasing cavity risks.  If your child likes to sleep with a bottle, consider filling it with water instead.
  • Limit juices at an early age.  Juices are one of the main causes of cavities in very young children.  If you can't keep it out of their diet, try not to exceed 4-6 oz. per day.
  • Start brushing right away.  Having two set times of day when you brush, even for young ones, can help teeth stay strong.  It also gets kids in the habit of brushing, rather than waiting until they get older and may want to be stubborn about it.
  • Make regular appointments with a pediatric dentist.  We see patients as young as 1 year old.  Our goal is to help you prevent dental illnesses before they start.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to prevent cavities in children.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

The Link Between Your Child's Teeth and Nutrition

April 7th, 2016

Every time you visit Northwest Children's Dentistry, your Tucson pediatric dentist, you may have noticed that we ask a lot of questions about your child's diet.  Generally, we will discuss the following topics with you every time you come to the office:

  • What your child eats at meals, drinks, and snacks
  • The frequency each type of food or drink is consumed
  • Recommended changes for improving your child's dental health

Our goal in asking these questions is to pinpoint potential problems that could result in costly and complicated dental treatments in the future.  We believe that prevention is worth an ounce of cure, so we will often advise to limit your child's consumption of sugary foods and drinks.

We understand that all children are unique and may have differing oral health needs. Being able to understand how your child’s teeth and gums are impacted by nutrition reduces their risk for cavities and decay.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want your kids to eat healthy and maintain strong teeth.  If you have any dental questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Fun Activities for Spring Break

March 21st, 2016

It's spring break, and that means the kiddos have lots of extra time on their hands this week.  We want your kids to continue to stay healthy and active, so here are some suggestions for you to do during the week:

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want your kids to get the most out of spring break.  If you have any dental questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.
About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Spanish Speaking Staff at our Pediatric Dental Office in Tucson

March 10th, 2016

Given our commitment to children's dental health in the Tuscon, Arizona region, we know we need to serve patients from a variety of backgrounds.  That's why we have two Spanish speakers on staff, plus Dr. Bunch knows some Spanish.  We are here to answer your questions about your child's dental health in either Spanish or English.

If you have any questions our Spanish speaking staff at our pediatric dental office in Tucson, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.  Se habla español.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

February 29th, 2016

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are the owners and practitioners at Northwest Children's Dentistry.  They are specially trained pediatric dentists with combined experience of over 25 years.  But not everyone knows exactly what that means.

Pediatric dentists have to go through the same rigorous training as the general practice dentists you probably see as an adult.  After graduating from general dental school, pediatric dentists go on to study for another degree on dental care for children.  In Dr. Bunch and Dr. Marshall's case, they trained specifically on how to work with disabled children.

The pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentist are committed to your child having a positive dental experience.  They focus on preventative, minimally invasive care.  If you have any questions about their experience or expertise, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

February is National Children's Dental Health Month

February 10th, 2016

Your child's dental health is always a top priority to month, but in February, it's also National Children's Dental Health Month.  The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has some great resources for you as part of this program.

Some resources that are available to you include:

We hope you'll get in the action and help kids maintain healthy teeth all year round!
About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Your Child's First Pediatric Dental Visit in Tucson

January 25th, 2016

Visiting a dentist for the first time can be a nerve wracking experience for both parents and children.  Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we pride ourselves on making the experience a pleasant one so that your child looks forward to coming to the dentist in years to come.

Each dental visit is tailored to your child's needs by age and personality.  We take time to listen to your concerns and let you know how we can tackle them as a doctor-parent team.

When you come into our office for the first time, you can expect us to do a visual exam.  We may take X-rays if needed.  We will always recommend oral strategies to keep your kid's teeth healthy until your next visit with us.  We avoid using words that can heighten a child's anxiety, and instead, focus on positive images to promote fun dental health.  We love kid smiles, so we like to provide rewards and joke around with your child during the appointment.

As your child's pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help keep your kids' teeth healthy.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are doctor spouses who have been working as kids dentists in Tucson for years.  They have deep ties to Tucson, as well as the surrounding Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and other areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children. If you’re looking for a general dentist for kids in Tucson, contact us today at (520) 544-8522.

Make Your New Year's Dental Resolution

January 3rd, 2016

The new year is a great time to think about getting healthy and staying fit, and it doesn't have to just apply to you!  You can also make a new year's dental resolution for your kids too.  Here's our list of things you should strive for in 2016:

  • Brush at least twice a day to remove plaque build-up from your teeth.
  • Floss at least once a day.
  • Limit sugary drinks and juice to no more than 4-6 oz. daily.
  • See a dentist twice a year for a routine inspection.

As your child's  pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help keep your kids' teeth healthy.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

How Often Should Your Child See a Dentist

December 17th, 2015

We know that we should get our car's oil changed every 3-6 months and our child should see a doctor every year, but how often should they see the dentist?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the general rule is children should see the dentist every 6 months.  The reason?  Pediatric dentists are masters of prevention, and checking your child's teeth every 6 months will allow us to monitor your kids' dental health and offer tips on how to stop problems before they require more invasive treatments.

As your child's  pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help keep your kids' teeth healthy.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Making it Through the Holidays with Healthy Teeth

November 30th, 2015

It's that time of year again: time to be thankful for friends, family, and health.  We like to do our small part by giving you some tips on how to best take care of your children's teeth.  Here are some tips you can use to keep cavities and other tooth-related ailments at bay:

Enjoy holiday treats in moderation.  Everyone enjoys a bit of extra egg nog, pumpkin pie, and other holiday goodies, but try to limit yourself where you can.  If your kids enjoyed an excess amount, try to give them an extra brush to keep their teeth clean.

Keep up with your dental routine while traveling.  It's easy to forget to the kids' toothbrush at home, but this is the time of year when you need it most.  Make sure you keep up brushing at least twice a day and flossing once a day.

Don't make all the holiday-fun food related.  We certainly enjoy more treats during this time of year, but also emphasize non-food traditions in your household.  Go caroling, watch a favorite holiday show, or give a little back to your community as part of your special time together as a family.

Incorporate tooth brushing with your Elf on the Shelf.  If your family enjoys the Elf on the Shelf, you can always incorporate a little mischief with the toothbrush.  Perhaps have that sneaky elf replace your kids' toothpaste with a different kind one morning.

As your child's  pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help keep your kids' teeth healthy.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Motivating your Kids to Brush Their Teeth

November 12th, 2015

Let's face it: even though we know brushing teeth is important, it can be difficult to get an unwilling kid to brush their teeth twice a day.

Here are some tips to motivate your little one to pick up their toothbrush:

Sing a brushing song.  For really little kids, singing a song about brushing your teeth can get them interested.  You can make one up every night or use the same one.

Make a toothbrush chart.  Create a chart with spaces so that each time your kid brushes their teeth without being asked, they get a sticker.  When they fill up the chart, give them a modest reward, like letting them pick what's for dinner the following night.

Get a fun toothbrush.  Toothbrushes with favorite characters or with bright colors can make it easier for a kid to brush their teeth.

Make sure they like the taste of the toothpaste.  Kids have different tastes, so you may want to try a few different flavors of toothpaste to find one they enjoy.  Like look for the approval rating by the American Dental Association before you buy.

As your child's  pediatric dentist in Tucson, we can help you draft a plan to get your child to brush twice a day.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What's the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

October 22nd, 2015

We get a lot of questions about dentistry, and one question that sometimes crops up is: What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?

A dentist is licensed medical professional that focuses on oral health care.  In the case of Northwest Children's Dentistry, we are pediatric dentists, meaning that we studied extra years to focus specifically on health care issues of infants, toddlers, children, and adolescent teeth.

An orthodontist is a specialized type of dentist that took extra training to focus on the alignment of teeth.  They generally help with issues of misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, underbites, and overbites.

As your child's  pediatric dentist in Tucson, we can tell you if your child needs to see an orthodontist.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Non-Food Treats to Hand out for Halloween

October 8th, 2015

With the arrival of October, it's officially the time of year for autumn festivities, and there's few events that kids look forward to more than Halloween.  Halloween means candy, and we hope you indulge in a healthy amount, but in case you were looking for some non-candy treat ideas, we've assembled the following list just for you.  Many of these items can be found at dollar stores sold in packs of 6-12.

  • Stickers
  • Nickels, dimes or quarters
  • Band-Aids with favorite characters
  • Temporary tattoos
  • Small Play-doh packs
  • Chalk
  • Coloring sheets
  • Bouncy balls
  • Hair bows/barrettes
  • Plastic jewelry

We hope you have a safe and healthy Halloween!  As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we're happy to give you guidance on how to manage your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

How to Handle a Dental Emergency

September 24th, 2015

All parents want to be prepared in case of an emergency.  Whether it be flash floods, a car accident, or a broken bone, we want to make sure we do the right things to ensure our child's safety.

We've already written a guide to handling a dental emergency on our website, but we felt it would be good to review a few key measure you can take if your child has a problem with their teeth:

  • Chipped or Fractured Tooth: If possible, locate and save any broken tooth fragments and bring them with you to the dentist. Some fractured teeth benefit from immediate treatment, so contact us.
  • Knocked out Permanent Tooth: If possible, find the tooth. Handle it by the crown (top) of the tooth, not by the root. Very GENTLY rinse the tooth with water if you plan to re-implant the tooth. DO NOT clean with soap, scrub or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Inspect the tooth for fractures. If it is sound, try to reinsert it in the socket. If you cannot re-insert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing the patient’s saliva or milk (or ice water if milk is not available). Time is a critical in saving the tooth, so please call us immediately.
  • Severe Blow to the Head:  Severe head injuries should always be taken very seriously.  Take the child to your nearest hospital emergency room immediately.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we're happy to give you guidance on how to manage your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Smiling Toward a New School Year

August 12th, 2015

Did you know that according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, students around the nation miss more than 51 school hours per year because of dental problems or related conditions?  Kids experiencing dental pain can't focus on school work and often miss class.

Make sure routine dental maintenance if part of your child's school year.  Teach your kids to floss once a day and brush twice with a fluoride toothpaste.  Try to limit sugary drinks and foods.  Schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist twice a year to help provide your child with an oral health assessment.  These can help prevent cavities and gingivitis in children.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we're happy to give you guidance on how to manage your child's dental needs.  If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Why Fluoride Supplements are Important

July 29th, 2015

Tucson, Arizona doesn't have fluoridated tap water, so it's important to make sure your child supplements with fluoride in other ways.  In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, "Widespread use of fluoride has been a major factor in the decline in prevalence and severity of dental caries in the US and other economically developed countries."  This stops dental problems from happening with young children, giving kids greater odds of having healthy teeth well into adulthood.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we're happy to give you guidance on how much fluoride supplements your child needs.  Different age groups of children need different doses, and other factors can also play into how much you should give your child.

If you have any questions about fluoride and your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

When You Should Replace Your Toothbrush

July 16th, 2015

We've all had that moment when we look at our old toothbrush and realize it's time to get a new one.  But if you ask different people, you may get different opinions about when it's the right time to replace your toothbrush.

The American Dental Assocation recommends that you change your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.  This rule is the same for parents and children.  In order to protect your toothbrush, they also recommend:

  • Not to share toothbrushes to minimize passing on illness to others.
  • Rinsing a toothbrush after each use to keep it clean.
  • Not covering a toothbrush to discourage microorganisms growing in a moist environment.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Tooth Decay: The Most Chronic Childhood Disease

July 2nd, 2015

If you were asked what was the most chronic childhood illness, you might come up with a lot of potential answers, but tooth decay, is the #1  most common chronic childhood disease.  According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, tooth decay in children is five times more common than asthma, four times more common than early childhood obesity, and 20 times more common than diabetes.

Tooth decay is important to prevent because it leads to painful toothaches, infections, and even tooth loss.  You may not think it's a big deal if it's a baby tooth, but losing baby teeth can impact a child's life forever by prematurely shifting teeth and causing other deep tissue infections.

Fortunately, you can minimize your child's risk of getting tooth decay by enforcing regular brushing and flossing habits.  If you catch decay early on, you may be able to restore tooth enamel with fluoride treatments.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

5 Reasons to Brush Your Teeth

June 16th, 2015

Everyone knows that brushing is essential to dental health, but maybe you didn't know why.  There are tons of reasons for your and your child to brush your teeth several times a day.  Here are our top favorite reasons:

  1. Avoid common dental problems such as cavities and gingivitis.
  2. Save money by preventing dental diseases rather than dealing with their consequences.
  3. Flash a more beautiful smile with whiter teeth.
  4. Feel more clean with nice smelling breath.
  5. Live longer.  Several studies show that that not brushing your teeth can lead to things like heart attacks and strokes.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Summer Sports and Your Child's Teeth

May 28th, 2015

It's summertime and that means no school and more time for fun activities like sports.  While you may not see a correlation between changing of the seasons and your child's teeth, we know as pediatric dentists that summer sports can have an impact on your child's dental health.

One thing we pride ourselves on at Northwest Children's Dentistry is preventative care.  We strongly believe an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  So if you have a child playing a new sport this summer, especially one with the potential for high impact and contact with other kids, we recommend sports guards.  We create custom mouth pieces for your child, which are more comfortable for your child to wear while they are on the field or at the gym.

If you want to read more about sports injury prevention, you can read what the American Dental Association has to say about mouth guards.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What Should You Do About Wisdom Teeth?

May 11th, 2015

Your wisdom teeth begin to form around your tenth birthday, but generally don't erupt into your mouth (if at all) until you are 17 to 25 years of age.  Because the age when wisdom teeth form, many parents of teenagers ask us questions about them.

Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed.  If they develop and erupt in the mouth normally, then you should not have issues.  Generally, wisdom teeth become an issue when they are  impacted.  This means they will grow into other teeth or parts of the mouth, which could damage those areas and causes pain.

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we will monitor the growth of your child's wisdom teeth through X-rays.  If we see a problem, we will be able to point it out to you and tell you when it might be time to talk to a specialist about extraction.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What Could be the Cause of Your Child's Sudden Bad Breath?

April 22nd, 2015

We receive a lot of questions from parents either at the office or online.  Recently, a parent asked us why her child suddenly had bad breath, so we thought we would discuss our response in our latest blog.

If your child has allergies or recently had a respiratory ailment, sometimes the mucus that collects in the child's throat can cause an onset of sudden bad breath.  Poor dental hygiene can also be a culprit.

We always encourage our patients to call us if something that this were to occur.  That way we can discuss your child and what could be the root cause of bad breath.   If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What Do You Do in a Dental Emergency?

April 2nd, 2015

As parents, we always worry about being prepared.  Accidents do happen, and one thing we here at Northwest Children's Dentistry see our fair amount of dental emergencies in kids.  What should you do to help your child in a dental emergency?

We have a page of dental tips of what you can do in case your child has a dental emergency, but here are some guidelines:

  • Time is critical in saving a tooth.  If you have a dental emergency, you should call your dentist immediately for care instructions.
  • Use a clean gauze or cloth to apply gentle pressure to any cuts inside a child's mouth.  If you cannot stop the bleeding with simple pressure, get your child immediate medical help.
  • If a permanent tooth ever gets knocked out of a child's mouth, DO NOT clean the tooth with soap, scrub or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Instead, insert it back into the socket if it is safe while you transport the child to dentist, orplace the tooth in a cup containing the patient’s saliva or milk (or ice water if milk is not available).
  • Save any tooth fragments you can find and bring them to the dentist immediately.  They may be salvageable.
  • Whenever in doubt about any trauma to a child's head, face, or mouth, seek immediate medical attention.
As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Preparing for Your First Dental Visit

March 3rd, 2015

Going to a new doctor or dentist can be a nervous experience.  You may not know what to expect or how the visit will go.  This goes double when your kids are involved.

If you are thinking of visiting us for the first time, here is a checklist of things to get yourself prepared.  We hope this helps ease some stress:

  • Questions for us.  We love questions!  Don't hesitate to make a list of any questions or concerns you have.  We want you to have a very positive visit, and we will not take offense at anything you ask us.
  • Your kids' health history.  Know your child's basic medical background, especially any allergies he or she may have.  You can download and fill out a copy of our health history form in advance if you prefer.
  • Insurance Information.  Make sure we have your dental insurance information so we can make billing go as smoothly as possible.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Importance of Fluoride

February 19th, 2015

We here at Northwest Children's Dentistry get a lot of questions about fluoride.  Fluoride is an important part of your child's dental health.  Research has shown that fluoride reduces cavities and helps repair the early stages of tooth decay, even before the decay becomes visible.

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in all water sources, even the oceans.  It is safe when administered in proper doses, which is something your dentist can talk to you about.

Leading health organizations, including the American Dental Association, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry support community water fluoridation based on the overwhelming weight of scientific evidence, which continues to establish that it is safe and effective.

Because Tucson is only one of 6 major U.S. cities who don't fluoridate tap water, we believe in children using fluoride toothpaste.  We typically recommend fluoride toothpaste for patients at 2 years of age. However, depending on your child’s specific risk for tooth decay, we may recommend using fluoride toothpaste earlier than 2 years old.

At 2 years old, it is best to use a smear amount of toothpaste. By age 5, a pea-sized amount is recommended. Swallowing this small amount of toothpaste is safe, but there is no harm in beginning to teach your child to spit out the toothpaste as early as possible.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

February is National Children's Dental Health Month

February 4th, 2015

Each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health.  This year's theme is "Defeat Monster Mouth."*

If you're looking for fun ways to teach your kids about dental health, the American Dental Association has some great worksheets and activities.  You can read about them at the National Children's Dental Health Month website.  The resources on these pages are great for schools, churches, and other youth groups to teach local kids the importance of dental health.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

*Slogan is Copyright 2015 American Dental Association. All Rights Reserved.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Flossing Your Kid's Teeth

January 22nd, 2015

Flossing is one of those things that we all know we should do, but we don't.  Even for kids, it's important to floss daily.  Here are some tips for getting into healthy flossing habits:

  • You should start flossing as soon as your child's teeth are touching each other, even if it's their baby teeth.
  • Make sure you pull the floss firmly against the teeth.  You're trying to remove food and other particles where your brush can't reach.
  • You can use either disposable flossers or regular dental floss.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child's dental health, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Losing Baby Teeth

January 8th, 2015

Losing baby teeth is another growing milestone during the early school years.  Here are some general statistics about losing baby teeth:

  • Your child can start losing baby teeth as young as 4 and as old as 7.
  • Permanent teeth emerge in roughly the same pattern as baby teeth.  Your child will start getting new front teeth first and gradually work backward.
  • Your child will probably lose his or her last baby tooth in their early teens, at around the same time as they get 12-year molars.

As your child loses baby teeth, encourage them to wiggle, but don't yank.  Especially with the front teeth, you may see the permanent tooth before the baby tooth comes out, and that's okay as long as the tooth above is loose.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  If you have any questions about your child losing baby teeth, feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

4 Tips for Holiday Snacking

December 17th, 2014

Happy holidays!

We all love food during the holidays, but here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we want to make sure all the food doesn't add up to dental problems for your kids.  Here are a few tips to enjoy holiday food and keep your healthy smile:

  • Brush more often as needed.  If your family goes to a holiday party and eats a lot of sugary treats, make sure to brush more often to reduce build-up on your teeth.
  • Keep down your juice intake.  We recommend no more than 4 to 6 ounces of juice for your child per day, although during the holidays it's understandable if you splurge a little.  But if you drink, say, 10 ounces of juice one day, try to limit the next day's intake.
  • Watch out for popcorn.  Holiday and movie popcorn are delicious this time of year, but little slivers of popcorn can easily get stuck in between your gums and teeth.  Make sure to floss your children after eating popcorn.
  • Stay active!  It's easy to get involved in eating, but sometimes exercise can fall to the wayside.  Try to keep your kids active as much as possible.  You can always offer some fun activities like basketball or soccer during a family get-together.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What's a Cavity?

December 3rd, 2014

Parents are always on the lookout for cavities, but what exactly are they?  This posts gives a more in-depth look on this common childhood ailment.

Cavities are tiny holes or openings that form permanently on the hard surface area of your teeth.  If left untreated, they can grow larger and penetrate deeper into the tooth, causing toothaches, infections or even tooth loss.  You can treat a cavity with simple fluoride treatments if it's just getting started, but treatment can also include fillings, root canals, crowns or even removal of the tooth.

As far as cavities go, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  By taking proper care of your teeth (i.e. regular brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary foods and drinks), you can prevent most cavities from ever forming.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Cheese and Your Child's Teeth

November 8th, 2014

We've long known that dairy products contain high amounts of calcium, which can help make strong teeth, but did you know eating cheese can also improve your child's dental health?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recent studies have shown that eating cheese at the end of a meal or as a snack helps fight cavities.  Cheese helps to produce saliva, which clears the mouth of debris and protects teeth from acids that weaken them. In addition, calcium and phosphorous in cheese lowers plaque’s ph level and works to re-mineralize the enamel of your child’s teeth.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What is Gingivitis?

October 15th, 2014

You've probably heard of gingivitis in a toothpaste commercial, but you might only have a vague idea of what it is.  Our latest blog post gives more concrete details on this common dental problem.

Gingivitis is a generally mild inflammation of the gums that can cause redness and swelling.  It occurs when bacteria found in foods sticks to your teeth and forms plaque.  After a few days plaque can harden into tartar, which makes brushing and flossing less effective, creating a shield for the bacteria to harm your gums.

The symptoms of gingivitis can be so mild that you don't notice it, but left untreated can lead to more serious types of gum disease, which is one reason we recommend seeing the dentist on a semiannual basis.  Fortunately, you can prevent gingivitis from forming at home by practicing good oral hygiene, i.e. brushing and flossing.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What Should You Consider a Snack?

September 29th, 2014

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we see all sorts of kids at various stages of their development.  Many times we ask parents what their kids' eating habits are so we can make recommendations for better dental health.  One thing that frequently comes up is snacking.

We define snacking as any time a child eats or drinks anything besides water.  This means that if your child drinks milk or juice in between meals, we consider it a snack.  The reason?  Any food or drink (besides water) that coats the teeth can cause tooth decay.

We recommend that you keep your child's snacking to a minimum in order to avoid tooth decay.  Whenever possible, give your child non-water beverages with their meals instead of in-between meals.  This will help your child maintain healthy teeth for a longer time.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Sugar's Effect on Teeth

September 16th, 2014

As parents, we all know that sugar isn't good for our kids' health.  Dentists always tell us to reduce our children's sugar intake.  But why is that?  Here's a quick breakdown on how sugar affects your teeth.

Tooth decay isn't actually caused by sugar, it is just acerbated by it.  When we eat sugar, it coats our teeth and bacteria clings to it.  Saliva has a hard time washing away the bacteria because the sugar acts as an adhesive.  As the bacteria clings to our teeth, it produces an acid which slowly erodes the tooth.  The longer the bacteria clings to our tooth, the more it decays.

Reducing your sugar intake, brushing your teeth, and flossing can all help stop this harmful process in your mouth.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

School's in Session: Making Brushing Part of Your Routine

September 3rd, 2014

With school back in session, families settle back into familiar routines: bedtimes, drives to school, and homework time.  As your kids get used to their new routines, make sure brushing at least twice daily is part of it.  Here are some tips to make it happen:

  • Make brushing the first thing they do after eating in the morning.  This helps solidify that brushing should occur after eating meals.
  • Ensure brushing is part of a night time routine.  Just as important as getting into pajamas and reading stories, you should make sure kids brush before going to bed.
  • Use timers and sing songs to enforce how long to brush.  This will ensure that kids spend enough time at each session getting their teeth clean.
  • Place floss next to the toothbrush.  If you use disposable flossing picks, then kids will know they need to floss as part of their brushing session.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Eating Toward Healthier Teeth

August 20th, 2014

We all know that eating healthy makes for a better smile, but what exactly does that mean?  Here's a list of foods and how they help keep your pearly whites looking great:

Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples and carrots are natural scrubbers and help remove plaque from your teeth.

Dairy products like milk and yogurt strengthen all bones, even teeth, due to their high calcium content.

Foods with high vitamin C don't just help during cold season.  They also promote healthy gums.

Leafy greens like spinach and kale have phosphorus, which helps your body absorb calcium.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage all your children's dental needs.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Importance of Baby Teeth

July 30th, 2014

For the parents of an infant, baby teeth is one of those precious milestones to look forward to, alongside first words and steps.  But baby teeth are more than just a page in your child's scrapbook.  Primary (or baby) teeth are important for many reasons:

  1. They play a role in proper chewing and eating.
  2. They help with speech development
  3. They hold space for permanent teeth, guiding them into the correct position.
  4. They aid in normal development of jaw bones and muscles.
  5. They make our toddlers' young smiles look great.

So don't neglect the growth of baby teeth.  As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we can help you keep your child's baby teeth healthy.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522 if you have any questions.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Summertime and Dental Care

July 17th, 2014

Summer is a busy time for kids and parents.  While you are out there enjoying fun in the sun, here are a few dental tips to keep in mind:

  • Set aside specific times to brush and floss.  Without school, it's easy for a kid to forget simple routine things like dental care.  Make sure you enforce the basics as a part of their summer routine.
  • Consider sports guards.  If your child is heavily involved in summer sports, you may want to give them some extra protection for their teeth.  Mouth guards provide greater protection against oral trauma in high contact sports.
  • Limit juice and other sugary drink intake.  Beat the heat instead with refreshing ice water or non-sweetened ice tea for older kids.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

When to Replace a Toothbrush

July 2nd, 2014

We've all been guilty, at one time or another, of hanging onto a toothbrush.  It's one of those chores that is easily forgotten.  But how often should you replace your toothbrush?

The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months or even sooner if the bristles become frayed.  Why?  Toothbrushes can harbor harmful bacteria over time.  For this same reason, the ADA also recommends never sharing toothbrushes, rinsing them with tap water after every use, and not store them in closed containers.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Handling Baby Tooth Injuries

June 18th, 2014

We all know that baby teeth aren't permanent, but you may not be aware of how to handle an injury to a baby tooth.  Here are some tips from Northwest Children's Dentistry.

If a baby tooth is pushed out of place, rinse the child’s mouth with water.  If the child has facial swelling, use a cold compress. In most cases, no emergency care is necessary, but it is best to have the dentist evaluate the injury/ swelling.

If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not put it back into the child's mouth. Rinse the child’s mouth with water and apply a cold compress to reduce facial swelling. If possible, find the tooth and bring it with you to the dentist.

If you have any concerns, you should always call your pediatric dentist to determine if an immediate consultation is needed.  As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

How to Talk About your Dental Visit to Your Child

June 4th, 2014

Do you have a child who is anxious about the dentist?  Many of our young patients feel at least a little nervous.  We already wrote one blog post about how the words we use as pediatric dentists can affect your child's visit.  But did you know that your words matter too?

A recent study found that if parents and other caregivers talk about the dentist in terms of anxiety, it will in turn make the child more anxious.  So if you ask a child, "Are you scared of the dentist?" you are increasing his anxiety about seeing the dentist.  The child might not have even thought to be scared before you mentioned it.

So instead of asking if your child is scared or nervous at our office, instead, use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.  For example, saying "Great job opening your mouth wide for Dr. Bunch!" will not only make the child feel proud, but it will also reduce anxiety.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Stopping Thumb Sucking and Pacifier Use

May 22nd, 2014

Do you have a young one who still sucks his/her thumb or uses a pacifier?  These habits are normal for infants and toddlers. However, some young children become very dependent on thumb sucking or pacifier use. Many children stop on their own, but if your child is still harboring these habits into their preschool years, it may be time for parents to get involved.

There are many options to help them stop utilizing this habit including positive reinforcement and rewards.  Some parents have the "pacifier fairy" come and take the pacifiers away and leave a small prize.  Others use sticker charts and give other small prizes for not engaging in these habits.  Still others try to replace the use of thumb sucking or pacifiers by letting the child take a special toy to bed at time.

For older children, there are dental appliances available.  You can ask us if this is appropriate for your child.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Welcoming New Patients

May 7th, 2014

Summer is a time when many families consider dental appointments for their kids.  Northwest Children's Dentistry is currently accepting new patients.  Feel free to give us a call at (520) 544-8522 to to schedule an appointment!

Why choose Northwest Children's Dentistry?  Here are a few reasons:

  • We are trained pediatric dentists, which means we specialize in kids' teeth.  We know what growing mouths need to stay healthy.
  • We take a preventative approach to dental care.  We want to stop potential problems before they start.
  • We make dentistry fun!  Between our office layout, dress-up days, and use of gentle words, we strive to make children comfortable when they're visiting us.
  • We accept many forms of insurance.  Call us for a current list of what we accept.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

A Reminder about Juice

April 22nd, 2014

As summer approaches, many parents will want to make sure to keep their kids hydrated as they engage in sports and other outdoor activities.  We want to remind you that although it's tempting to load your kid up on juice during the summer months, juice should only be given to your child in moderation.  Too much juice, even 100% fruit juice, can aggregate tooth decay in otherwise healthy teeth.

Here are some rules of thumb for how much juice is appropriate for your child:

  1. No juice for infants younger than 6 months
  2. Limit juice to 4 – 6 ounces per day for children 1 to 6 years old
  3. Limit juice to 8 – 12 ounces per day for children 7 to 18 years old

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

When Should Your Child Visit the Orthodontist

April 1st, 2014

As your child grows, so do the placement of their teeth.  Some children will eventually need braces.  While a pediatric dentist can help with most dental health problems, orthodontists specialize in braces and other improper bite issues.

Many parents ask us when their child should visit the orthodontist.  The answer is very specific for your child. As a general rule, many children can wait until all permanent teeth have come in before beginning orthodontic therapy. This usually occurs at around 10 to 13 years of age.  There are some children, however, with specific jaw growth and tooth placement patterns that benefit from orthodontic intervention as early as 5 years of age.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we will evaluate your child’s specific needs and refer you to an orthodontist accordingly.  We want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Words of Pediatric Dentistry

March 12th, 2014

To paraphase Shakespeare, a rose called any other name would still smell as sweet, right?  While that may be true, the words we use to talk to children can have a huge impact on their perceptions.  That's why here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we try to talk to children in a way that creates a positive mental image of going to the dentist.

One way we accomplish this is avoiding scary words.  For example, instead of saying “shot," we may say "sleepy juice."  Instead of "cavity," we may say "sick tooth."   This not only makes what's happening more relevant to children, it also helps them from associating the dentist with pain, reducing anxiety.  By letting children know what to expect, they can feel calm throughout their appointment and develop a positive association with dental visits.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Will Teeth Grinding Harm My Child's Teeth?

February 27th, 2014

When your baby sprouts her first bottom and top teeth, it's the beginning of teeth grinding.  Babies, toddlers, and even older kids can get in the habit of grinding their teeth.  It's a way for young children to explore their changing mouth landscape.

But will teeth grinding harm your child's teeth in any permanent way?

Typically, no. Tooth grinding is a common occurrence in young children. Although grinding itself sounds bad, treatment is often not necessary and the grinding often resolves on its own around age 6. For young adults with a full mouth of teeth who grind at night, therapies such as a night guards can reduce the wear on teeth. Night guards are rarely needed for young children because the primary teeth fall out before excessive grinding causes problems.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Handling your Child's Chipped Tooth

February 12th, 2014

Despite our best efforts to keep our children safe, accidents do occur.  Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we see young patients who have sustained injuries that affected their teeth.

One thing that can occur is a child may chip or fracture a tooth.  This means part of the tooth remains in the mouth, while the rest has fallen out.  So what do you do when this happens?

If possible, locate and save any broken tooth fragments and bring them with you to the dentist. Some fractured teeth benefit from immediate treatment, so contact us right away, and we'll outline the best options for your child.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Pacifiers and Your Child's Dental Health

January 28th, 2014

As pediatric dentists at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we receive a lot of questions about safe pacifier use with children.  We  follow the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists' recommendations.  Sucking on a thumb or pacifier is natural for young children and most children will stop on their own.  We generally discourage the use of pacifiers after age 3.

Here are some other safe pacifier tips to follow:

 

  • Never tie a cord, ribbon or string between a pacifier and a child's body or a crib.  It can become a strangulation hazard.
  • If the child can fit the entire pacifier into his/her mouth, discard it.  Your child could choke on it.
  • If the pacifier bulb has become cracked, sticky, or worn, replace it with a new one.

 

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Nutrition and Your Child's Dental Health

January 2nd, 2014

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we are firm believers that prevention is an important element in your child’s oral health success.  We discuss your child’s nutrition at every appointment because as they grow, what they eat and drink are likely to change.

We often ask about:

  • Their current foods, drinks, and snacks
  • The frequency each is consumed

From there, we can provide you with individualized tips that will help you maintain your child's good dental health.  We understand that all children are unique and may have differing oral health needs. Being able to understand how your child’s teeth and gums are impacted by nutrition reduces their risk for cavities and decay.  It also helps you avoid more costly, complicated dental treatments in the future.
As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Brushing Your Child's Tongue

December 9th, 2013

When you think of brushing your child's teeth, you may only be thinking of those pearly whites.  While it is important to brush your child's teeth at least two times a day, it's also important to brush your child's tongue.

What's so important about brushing your tongue?  Just like your teeth, your tongue can hold bacteria in its bumps and ridges.  Bacteria on your tongue can lead to bad breath.  So brushing your child's tongue helps keep these nasty agents from affecting the teeth, leading to overall better oral health.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Scoop on Metal Free Fillings

November 7th, 2013

When you think of dental fillings, you may conjure up an image silver or gold metal over your pearly whites.  In our day and age, however, many types of filling materials are available.   Metal free fillings have become popular because of their ability to restore a tooth while blending naturally with the rest of your child’s smile.  Composed of tooth-colored composite resin material, metal free fillings can be used to repair cavity-ridden, chipped, broken or cracked teeth.

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we decide whether metal amalgam or metal free fillings should be used for your child based on aesthetics and the location of the filling. For example, teeth that show up in photographs, such as front teeth, are often better suited for metal free fillings.  Our office always aims to use the most modern standards of dentistry in terms of conservation, longevity, and restoration when considering the health of each tooth needing repair.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Halloween and Your Kids' Teeth

October 24th, 2013

Every holiday season, we here at Northwest Children's Dentistry like to offer advice on how to get your child's teeth through the holidays.  Holidays generally bring more sugar into our kids' lives, and that's especially true at Halloween.

We know lots of kids make a pretty good candy haul for Halloween.  To keep your child's teeth healthy during this time, remember to brush twice a day and floss daily.  We also recommend not having your child eat their entire Halloween candy stash at once.  This will not only prevent tummy aches, but can reduce the risk of cavities.  Instead, have your child eat only one or two pieces of candy from their stash per day until it is gone.

For the truly inspired, you can also reduce the neighborhood's sugar intake by handing out other treats on Halloween, such as stickers.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

How Long Can Kids See a Pediatric Dentist?

October 11th, 2013

Most of our patients know that their babies, toddlers, and young children can see a pediatric dentist.  Pediatric dentists go through extra training and have more experience working with young and growing teeth.  But when should your growing child start seeing a regular dentist like you do?

In general, pediatric dentists see patients from aged 0 to 18 year old.  Like pediatric doctors, we specialize in taking care of young teeth, and even in the high school years, your child's teeth are changing.  We recommend seeing a normal dentist after 18 years of age.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Your Child's Permanent Teeth

September 26th, 2013

After years of taking care of baby teeth, parents may wonder what happens when a child begins to show permanent teeth.  Here's some information on what to expect.

While most children have 20 baby (primary) teeth (10 on top and 10 below), your child will eventually get 32 permanent teeth (16 on top and 16 below).  Your child's baby teeth will naturally loosen to make way for the permanent teeth that replace them.  Some teeth, especially the molars, will come in without a baby tooth holding its place.  You will see this molar appear around 6-7 years of age.

Your child will be using these teeth throughout the rest of his or her lifetime, so it's good to use proper hygiene even at a young age.  Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and scheduling regular dental visits will help keep your child's smile bright now and well into adulthood.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

X-Rays and Your Child's Dental Health

August 29th, 2013

When you were young and visiting a dentist, you may have only gotten 1 or 2 x-rays.  Now you may notice that dentists use them more frequently.  Why is that?

Radiographs (x-rays) are an important tool in providing your child with a thorough examination. There are many preventable problems that we can't see unless we used x-rays.  Since we pride ourselves on catching problems before they become serious, x-rays are a useful tool to meet those ends.

At Northwest Children's Dentistry, we use digital radiography and shielding, which minimizes your child’s exposure to radiation. The number and frequency of radiographs is tailored to each child’s individual risk assessment.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

When to Start Flossing your Child

August 17th, 2013

Lots of parents know to start brushing as soon as their infant's teeth emerge, but what about flossing?  We receive many questions about when it's time to start flossing your child.

As a rule of thumb, you should floss your infant or toddler once the space between their teeth become close enough that simple brushing won't remove food particles.  This time can vary from child to child.  Being proactive about brushing your child's teeth twice a day will help you identify when the exact time is right for your child.  If you're not sure, you can always visit Northwest Children's Dentistry for an evaluation.

On the same token, it doesn't hurt to "practice flossing" so that your child is used to the process even at an early age.  You can floss your child's teeth even with large gaps once a week just so they're used to the sensation.  This can help smooth the transition when they should be flossing every day.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all aspects of your child's dental care.  Feel free to call us at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

5 Tips to a Healthier Smile

July 31st, 2013

Want your child to grow up with a bright, happy smile? You don't have to visit the dentist. Here are 5 tips you can use at home every day:


1. Help kids brush two times a day with fluoride toothpaste. Children who do this tend to develop fewer cavities.

2. Decrease consumption of juice and other sugary drinks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends less than 6 oz of juice a day.

3. Encourage snacking on fresh fruits and vegetables. Processed foods contain starches and simple sugars, which are more likely to cause tooth decay.

4. Seal out tooth decay. Sealants on permanent molars have are have proven to be an effective way to decrease tooth decay.

5. Establish a dental home for your child to encourage a lifetime of preventive care seeking behavior.

 

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you take care of your child's teeth all year round. Feel free to call us and ask us questions anytime.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Importance of Sealants

July 18th, 2013

In dentistry, prevention is often the best medicine. Stopping tooth decay before it starts saves time, money, and stress on the entire family.

One painless, low-cost way of protecting teeth from decay is through the use of dental sealants. Many permanent molars erupt with deep pits and grooves on the chewing surface. These areas are difficult to keep clean, even with the best brushing skills.

A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating that is bonded to the chewing surface of the tooth. The sealant fills the deep pits and grooves, providing a barrier to keep food and bacteria out, thus reducing the risk of decay by up to 50%.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help refer you to understand all preventive dental options for your child.  Feel free to call us and ask us questions anytime at (520) 544-8522.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

When to Visit the Orthodontist

June 30th, 2013

We receive a lot of questions from parents about when is the right time to visit the orthodontist.  The answer is very specific for your child, so if you are one of our patients, we can discuss this specifically at your next appointment.  As a general rule, many children can wait until all permanent teeth have come in before beginning orthodontic therapy.  This usually occurs at around 10 to 13 years of age.

There are situations in which you may want to take your child to the orthodontist sooner.  Specific jaw growth and tooth placement patterns benefit from orthodontic intervention as early as 5 years of age.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help refer you to the right dental specialists when your child needs it.  Feel free to call us and ask us questions anytime.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Keeping Teeth Healthy Over the Summer

June 14th, 2013

As summertime approaches, families are thinking of all the fun the season entails.  Few give a second thought to dental health.

However, with the increase in temperature comes an increase in drinking sugary beverages, and that can be damaging to your child's teeth.   One study shows that there has been  an increase in decay rates in children ages 2 to 5.  Besides just drinking juices and soda, kids in this age range also eat more sugary snacking between meals during the summer (ice cream anyone?).

Make sure your little one still maintains good oral health care during the summer.  Limit the amount of juice and other sugary drinks your child consumes, keep between meal snacking to a minimum, and continue to brush and floss regularly, even if you're traveling.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you manage every season of your child's dental health.  Feel free to call us and ask us questions anytime.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

How to Handle a Child's Toothache

May 30th, 2013

As parents, we're used to dealing with all sorts of minor ailments: low grade fevers, runny noses, and minor scrapes.  However, you may not have had experience on what to do when a child gets a toothache.

First clean the affected tooth thoroughly by either rinsing the child’s mouth with warm water or using dental floss to dislodge any food in the gums. DO NOT place aspirin or heat on the gums or on the aching tooth.

If pain persists, contact your pediatric dentist. If the child’s face is swollen, apply a cold compress and contact your pediatric dentist immediately.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you take care of all your child's dental  needs.  Feel free to call us and ask us questions anytime.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Effectiveness of In-Office Fluoride Treatments

April 22nd, 2013

One of the many treatments we offer at Northwest Children's Dentistry are in-office fluoride treatments.  Many parents ask us about this common procedure.

In-office fluoride treatments have been shown to decrease tooth decay rates. For younger children, we prefer to use a topical fluoride varnish that is “painted” onto the teeth. The benefit for using a fluoride varnish is that children do not have to wait 30 minutes to eat or drink. We typically recommend in-office fluoride treatments twice per year for all ages. For those children with high risk for tooth decay, we recommend these treatments more often.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help you understand all the treatments we provide.  Feel free to call us and ask us questions anytime.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What is a Pediatric Dentist?

April 4th, 2013

When we were growing up, there weren't many pediatric dentists around.  Chances are, you saw the same dentist as your mom or dad saw.  You might be wondering, what makes a pediatric dentist so special?

A pediatric dentist is a dentist who completes an additional 2 or 3 years of training specific to the growth, development, and treatment of children.  That means they know the ins-and-outs of young growing teeth, which can differ widely from an adult set of teeth.  Armed with this knowledge, Dr. Marshall and Dr. Bunch of Northwest Children's Dentistry specialize in oral care for all children from birth to 18 years of age, including special needs children.  Our office is equipped to handle a variety of dental issues that will relate to your child.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to make your visit comfortable with us.  Feel free to ask us any questions about pediatric dentist training in the comments below.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What to Expect on Your First Dental Visit

March 18th, 2013

Parents or guardians taking their children to the dentist for the first time have a lot of concerns.  Usually they wonder what to expect and how they should behave.

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we try to make your first visit as comfortable as possible.  Here's what you can expect in our office:

  1. Welcoming waiting facility with castle, retro video console, and more for children to play with
  2. Knowledgable staff who are prepared to answer any and all questions you have
  3. A thorough examination of your child's teeth, along with prevention tips to keep your kids healthy

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to make your first visit as comfortable as possible.  Please call us today if you have other concerns about your child's first dental appointment.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist.

Why Permanent Teeth Can Be Delayed

March 5th, 2013

Last week on Facebook, we asked our fans if they had any questions about kids and their teeth.  One fan asked:

My child's top front baby tooth fell out 3 months ago. Why is the permanent tooth taking so long to come in?

There are actually a few reasons that a permanent tooth may take longer to erupt. A common reason is that the baby tooth root resorbed a bit early, causing the baby tooth to fall out early. This means the permanent tooth is not late in erupting, but the baby tooth was just early in falling out.  Another less common reason is that something may be hindering/ blocking a tooth from erupting.  Your dentist can take a radiograph to check for a mesiodens (i.e. an extra tooth), root remnant, or something else that may be blocking or slowing eruption of the permanent tooth.

If you are concerned about a permanent tooth coming in, please make an appointment.  As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we can find a specific answer for your child.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Statistics of Tooth Decay

February 14th, 2013

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we answer a lot of questions about children and tooth decay.  Many parents ask us how common it is.  The answer: more common than you might think.  The National Institute of Health reports that 28% of children 2 to 5 years old and 51% of children 6 to 11 years old have tooth decay in primary teeth (also known as baby teeth). Primary teeth have less protective enamel than permanent teeth, so are more susceptible to decay.  The National Institute of Health also reports that 10% of children 6 to 8 years old and 31% of children 9 to 11 years old have tooth decay in permanent teeth.

With those stats, parents might think tooth decay is just a part of growing up.  However, it doesn't have to be.  Early prevention can help reduce the risk of tooth decay.  Our office works hard to prevent tooth decay in both primary and permanent teeth so a child can focus on being a kid.  Prevention is also more cost efficient on families in the long run.

We want to help your child avoid cavities through proper dental hygiene.  Call us today if you have any questions about your child's dental health.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Healthy Eating Habits for Teeth

January 25th, 2013

Wondering what's good and bad for your child's teeth?  Here are a few tips from us:

Keep consumption of juice and other sugary drinks to a minimum. It is especially important in warm climates, such as Tucson, to keep children hydrated. Try milk or water instead.

Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Processed foods contain starches and simple sugars that are more likely to cause tooth decay.

Limit frequent snacking. Between-meal snacking, especially on foods that are sticky or contain fermentable carbohydrates, increase your child’s risk for tooth decay.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help your child avoid cavities through proper dental hygiene.  Call us today if you have any questions about your child's eating habits.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Flossing Your Toddler

January 5th, 2013

You may not realize it, but your toddler's got a smile that needs flossing.  You should begin flossing your child no later than when he/she has two teeth that are close enough together that a brush can't reach between the teeth.  Those trouble spots are more likely to form cavities if food gets stuck between them.

So how should you floss a toddler?  The same way adults floss: ideally after every meal or at least once a day.  You can use the same floss you use for yourself, or you can buy disposable floss picks that make it easier to get in and out of a squirming toddler.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we want to help your child avoid cavities through proper dental hygiene.  Call us today if you have any questions about how to floss your toddler.

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Importance of Sports and Mouth Guards

December 16th, 2012

If you've got a kid, then you've got an athlete in the making.  As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we encourage your kids to stay fit by participating in sports.  We also encourage that you protect your child's or teen's teeth by investing in a sport or mouth guard, especially for high contact sports.

While you can buy a mouth guard at your local drugstore, coming into your local dentist and having one custom designed protects greater protection.  Your child will also be more likely to wear a sports guard if it fits properly and looks nice, which we strive to do with every one we design.  We can sweeten the deal by adding team colors and other personal touches to encourage your child to wear it more often.

When a child learns to wear mouth guards at an early age, they’re more likely to become an integral part of their sports routine.  So get them started today!

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Holidays and Your Child's Teeth

October 31st, 2012

With the holidays fast approaching, kids and adults will be tempted with many sugary treats. Here is a tip from your pediatric dentist to help reduce the sugar exposure to your children’s teeth:

Try to minimizing snacking on sugar treats. Constant or frequent snacking doesn’t give your mouth a chance to naturally rinse the sugar (and acid byproducts from bacteria) off the teeth.

So eat that candy bar or finish that piece of cake, but then put the treats away for another day.  And don't forget to go brush your teeth!

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we care about your children's dental health.  Give us a call if you have questions about your children's eating habits.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

When Should Children Brush Their Own Teeth?

October 11th, 2012

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, your local Tucson pediatric dentist, we get a lot of questions about preventative dental health care.  We love these kinds of questions.  We strongly believe that having good oral health habits will lead to better dental health for your child.

One question we frequently receive: When should children brush their own teeth?   Our answer:  you should continue to assist your child with toothbrushing until they can write cursive.  This usually happens when your child is around 8 years old.  Children do not have a fully developed range of dexterity until that age, so they often will miss areas when brushing, which in turn can cause cavities and other dental problems.

This does not mean you should not encourage your child to try brushing on their own.  Instead, you can have your child brush solo first, then do a follow-up brushing immediately after to clean hard-to-reach spots.  This will keep your child's teeth clean while simultaneously training them to one day take over brushing for themselves.

As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we care about your children's dental health.  Give us a call if you have questions about your children's toothbrushing habits.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Northwest Children's Dentistry Visits Tucson Elementary School

September 28th, 2012

This September, our staff had the honor of giving a presentation to the kids of Estes Elementary School.  We talked not only about the importance of daily brushing, but why eating healthy foods is important.  The kids came up with some great questions, and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, all while promoting better oral hygiene.

Here at Northwest Children's Dentistry, we believe in the power of dental education.  That's why we offer 30-minute presentations to pre-school age children up to the 6th grade.  Our presentations focus on good oral hygiene techniques and eating healthy foods.  We tailor visits to each age group so children get the most out of the experience.

If your school, daycare, or other organization wants us to give a presentation, please call us at (520) 544-8522 to schedule a visit.   As your pediatric dentist in Tucson, we care about the oral health of your kids!

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

What Toothbrush Should I Get My Kids?

September 12th, 2012

With so many choices in toothbrushes, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your growing child. So what is really best for the dental health of your child? The good news is that we suggest only a couple of criteria when choosing a toothbrush:

  1. Choose a toothbrush which is size appropriate. Most companies offer a variety of sizes to choose from.
  2.  Toothbrushes with soft bristles are preferable.

And as your pediatric dentist in Tucson recommends, don't forget to brush your child's teeth at least two times per day!

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

The Importance of Age 1 Dental Visits

August 30th, 2012

As parents of an infant-going-on-toddler, you have a lot of things to worry about: first year sleep patterns, solid foods, and keeping your new walker safe.  A dentist visit may be the last thing on your mind.

 

However, there are a few reasons to consider visiting a pediatric dentist for an age 1 dental visit. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you can:

 

    • Start a lifelong plan of preventive dental care for your child to minimize tooth decay and cavities.
    • Identify tooth decay early in young patients, who can be at risk as soon as their first tooth appears.
    • Meet your dentist before an emergency happens.  This way, you will have a number to call with a dentist who is already familiar with your child's teeth.
    • Save money! A study in the journal Pediatrics showed that children who have their first dental visit before age one have 40 percent lower dental costs in their first five years than children who do not, due to the cost of dental and medical procedures that may be necessary as a result of poor oral health.

 

So if you're looking for a pediatric dentist in Tucson, give us a call to learn more about age 1 dental visits!   Our team takes time to listen, understand, and answer any concerns you and your child have from the very beginning. We want to take care of your child’s smile now as well as protect it for the future.

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

August's Featured Business: AVON with Tina Munoz

August 18th, 2012

For this month's featured Tucson business, we drew Tina Munoz and AVON.  If you're looking for great beauty products sold locally, check out her AVON site.  We also have brochures for her business at our office, so feel free to stop by.

Need more personal help finding the right product for you?  Tina's got answers to all your questions.  You can give her a call at 520-572-5246.

Congrats again to this month's winner!   And if you want to be the next featured business from a pediatric dentist in Tucson, bring your business card in today for the next drawing!

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

 

 

Teeth and the Truth about Juice

August 3rd, 2012

Although summer is almost over, it stays hot here in Tucson for much of the year. Keeping our children hydrated is very important. With so many choices in the marketplace, what should we know as parents?  What are the best beverage options for our kids?

In dentistry, we like to remind parents that juice and other sugary drinks should be consumed in moderation since they can cause tooth decay. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:

 

1. No juice for infants younger than 6 months
2. Limit juice to 4 – 6 ounces per day for children 1 to 6 years old
3. Limit juice to 8 – 12 ounces per day for children 7 to 18 years old

What are good alternatives to juice? Water and low-fat milk are the best drink choices. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best food replacements.

Enjoy the last few days of summer before school starts and stay healthy!

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

 

 

July's Featured Business: Sunshine School

July 22nd, 2012

As promised in our last blog about local Tucson businesses, we've started our featured business program for the month of July.  Chosen from a random drawing of business cards, we're happy to congratulate Sunshine School!

 

From personal experience, we can tell you that Sunshine School offers an advanced curriculum that caters to curious kids. Tthe teachers and staff are professional, caring, and friendly.  They are a wonderful preschool for ages nearly 3 to 5 year olds.

So if you have little ones and are looking into preschool, take the time to check out their program.  And if you want to be the next featured business from a pediatric dentist in Tucson, bring your business card in today for the next drawing!

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Get your Tucson Business Featured at our Office!

June 22nd, 2012

The pediatric dentists in Tucson here at Northwest Children's Dentistry love to support local businesses.  We believe in spending locally and supporting the growth of our community.

In that spirit, we will be featuring a new Tucson-based business in our office every month.  The contest will kickstart this summer.

If your business is selected as our Featured Business of the Month, you'll get the following perks:

 

  • An 8x10 poster featuring your business:  We have a prominent place in our office where we will hang a custom-made poster just for your business.
  • Pamphlet and business card giveaways:  Got more information you want to give out to our patients?  We'll have space for you to give our customers your very own pamphlets, brochures, and business cards.
  • Free advertisements to our community:   We'll let our Facebook followers, Twitter fans, and Google+ customers know that you were selected as our featured business.  Most of our social media crowd lives in Tucson: a huge boon to your business!

 

Want to get featured?  Leave your business card at the front desk of our office for your chance to be selected.  Help us support local businesses and buy from Tucson!

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Dr. Bunch and Dr. Marshall provide top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as Tucson dentists. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

 

 

Northwest Children's Dentistry Facebook Contest

May 25th, 2012

It’s already been a few weeks since the new Northwest Children’s Dentistry website went live, and we’re pleased so far with the results.  Already, we’re seeing a noticeable difference in communication between our patients and our office.

In an effort to keep building that communication, we’re going to be posting a lot more to Facebook in 2012.  This will allow you to ask us questions, see what’s happening in our dental office, and keep us connected with our most important asset: our community.

In that spirit, we’re kicking off a Facebook contest for 2012.  If you “like” the Northwest Children’s Dentistry Facebook page, you’ll be automatically entered to win a bunch of prizes we will be giving away over the rest of the year.

Here’s how it works - every time our Facebook page receives a milestone, such as “100 Likes,” we will give away 1 prize.  Everyone who has liked our page at that point will be entered into a drawing to win the associated prize.  Here’s the list of all the stuff we’re potentially giving away:

general dentistry for kids in Tucson

Tell your friends to “Like” us for the chance to win more prizes over the rest of the year!  (Contest ends December 31, 2012.)

Northwest Children’s Dentistry proudly supports Mama’s Famous Pizza & Heros, a locally owned restaurant.  Visit them today at one of their four locations across Tucson:

  • Northside: 7965 N. Oracle Rd.
  • Midway: 4500 E. Speedway Blvd.
  • Eastside: 6996 E. 22nd St.
  • Far Eastside: 50 S. Houghton

As a pediatric dentist in Tucson, we know how important it is to buy and shop locally.  If you have a locally owned business you’d like us to feature, drop off your business card at our office today!

7610 N La Cholla Blvd
Tucson, AZ 85741

Thanks for reading and hope to see you on Facebook soon!

 

About Northwest Children's Pediatric Dentists

general dentistry for kids in TucsonDr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team providing general dentistry for kids in Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Oracle, and surrounding areas. Northwest Children's Dentistry provides top-notch care for toddlers, children, teens, and special needs children as your local Tucson dentist. If you’re looking for a kids dentist in Tucson, contact us today!

Welcome to the Blog of Northwest Children's Dentistry

May 8th, 2012

general dentistry for kids in TucsonWelcome to the blog of Northwest Children’s Dentistry, where we specialize in Tucson, AZ children’s dentistry. We are enthusiastic about helping toddlers, children, teens, and those with special needs manage a healthy smile by creating a positive experience from the very beginning. We are firm believers in prevention, and enjoy educating patients and parents on good oral hygiene and nutrition, so you will feel prepared and confident once you leave.

Dr. Norman Bunch and Dr. Jennifer Marshall are a husband and wife team of pediatric dentists for the Tucson area and understand that every child is unique and worthy of receiving personalized care in a kid-friendly setting. Every child deserves the encouragement and education needed to maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles!